Saint Nicholas – Aged Lithograph with Gold Leaf – Mount Athos

Description

Aged Lithograph Featuring Saint Nicholas
Description
Saint Nicholas was born in the 3rd century AD in Patara of Lycia to devout parents. He lived during the reigns of Emperors Diocletian (284–304 AD), Maximian (286–305 AD), and Constantine the Great.

He became an orphan at a young age, inheriting a considerable fortune from his parents. Inspired by his philanthropic spirit, Nicholas used his wealth to assist those in need.

He later devoted himself to an ascetic life. Due to his exceptional virtue, he was honored—without seeking it—with the position of priest in Patara and later as Archbishop of Myra. From this role, he guided his flock with love and boldly proclaimed the truth of the Gospel. This led to his arrest and imprisonment by local authorities.

When Constantine the Great became emperor, all imprisoned Christians were released. Nicholas returned to his archbishopric in Myra and participated in the First Ecumenical Council, where he stood out for his wisdom and character.

Saint Nicholas was gifted with the power of performing miracles even during his lifetime. His miracles remain countless to this day. He passed away in 330 AD. The Church honors his memory on December 6, and he is recognized as the patron saint of sailors.

Aged Lithograph: Characteristics
In this icon, the monk-iconographer utilized the lithography technique to create a uniquely beautiful work adorned with gold leaf around its edges. Specifically, using a lithographed reproduction of Byzantine art, the monk crafted this piece following the traditional method of artificial aging as taught in the iconography workshops of the Athonite monastic community. The artificial aging of the iconography is done by hand, a process to which the monks of Mount Athos attach great importance.

Origin: Mount Athos