Archangel Michael – Antiqued Lithograph with Gold Leaf – Mount Athos

Description

Antiqued Lithograph of Archangel Michael

The Archangel Michael is the leader of the unbodied powers, appearing as the Supreme Commander, and plays a pivotal role in both the Old and New Testaments. He is also honored as the patron of the Air Force. He is the one who appeared to Abraham during the sacrifice of Isaac.

When Lucifer, who was one of the angels, rebelled due to his pride against God, a group of angels broke away from God and followed him. These angels, along with Lucifer, were cast out and became demons. At that moment, Archangel Michael, with humility and submission to God, gathered and united the ranks of the angels, calling out to them “Proskhomene” (Let us be watchful), meaning we must be careful not to fall from the light into darkness, as Lucifer did.

Antiqued Lithograph: Characteristics

In this particular image, the monk iconographer used the technique of lithography to create a work of unique beauty, framed with gold leaf. Specifically, using a lithographed copy of Byzantine art, the monk crafted this piece following the traditional method of artificial aging, as taught in the iconography workshops of Mount Athos. In fact, the artificial aging of the icon is handcrafted, a process to which the monks of Mount Athos attach great importance.

Origin: Mount Athos