Description
Handmade Seal for Prosphora
Handcrafted by Father Damaskinos at the Holy Cell of Saint Basil in Kavsokalyvia. It is entirely hand-carved from poplar wood, featuring deep engraving, a thick border, and designs that adhere closely to authentic Orthodox symbolism. The poplar wood is of excellent quality and suitable for food contact. The back side features a handle for easy use, decorated with a carved cross inscribed with the Byzantine text “ΙΗΣΟΥΣ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ ΝΙΚΑ” and the phrase “ΑΓΙΟΝ ΟΡΟΣ” (Mount Athos).
Mount Athos Prosphora Seal – Symbolism
Prosphora is the bread offered in the church for the celebration of the Divine Eucharist. Together with wine, as the Sacred Gifts (bread and wine), it is first placed in the Prothesis (from *pro-tithēmi*, meaning to set forth), where during the Proskomide rite, it is prepared for the Divine Liturgy before being carried to the Holy Altar in the Great Entrance.
The round shape of the prosphoron symbolizes the womb of the Virgin Mary, from which the Only-Begotten Son was born. The prosphoron bears a raised design, created using a seal.
From the center of the prosphoron, the “Lamb” is derived—the central square with the letters: ΙΣ ΧΣ ΝΙ ΚΑ (Jesus Christ Conquers). These letters must be clear and distinct. It is called the Lamb because the prophet Isaiah foretold that the Messiah would be led to sacrifice like an innocent lamb.
The prosphoron’s design also includes the portion of the Theotokos, marked with the letters Μ and Θ (Mother of God). The triangular portion representing the Virgin Mary is placed to the right of the Lamb.
From the nine small triangles on the right of the prosphoron, portions for the angels and all the saints are derived and placed to the left of the Lamb. Other sections of the prosphoron provide portions for the living and the departed who belong to the Orthodox Church.
Mount Athos Prosphora Seal – Care Instructions
Prosphora seals should be stored in a case and kept away from moisture. They should not be soaked or oiled. To clean the seal from any dough residues, use a toothpick and a small brush.
Dimensions: 14 cm
Origin: Holy Cell of Saint Basil, Mount Athos
