Baptism – Lithograph – Mount Athos

Description

Lithograph of the Baptism

A lithograph depicting the Baptism of the God-man by John the Baptist. According to Orthodox tradition and Byzantine iconography, the “Baptism” is full of symbolism. The immersion of Christ in the waters of the Jordan River symbolizes His death and Resurrection. He is always shown at the center, surrounded by rocks, entering the water, a scene that symbolizes His descent into Hades, while with His right hand He is seen blessing and sanctifying the waters. The angels, who are worshiping, have their hands covered as a sign of respect, or according to another version, they are holding cloths to welcome Jesus when He emerges from the Jordan River. Finally, Saint John the Baptist barely touches the head of Christ, pouring water from the Jordan River, showing the awe he feels before the God-man.

Lithograph: Features

This image of the Baptism has been created using the lithography technique. The monk who created this work studied in the iconography workshops of the Monasteries of Mount Athos, where he learned both the technique of lithography and the process of handmade artificial aging, which is evident in this particular image. It is worth noting that the lithography technique in iconography is a form of printing technique.

Origin: Mount Athos