Description
Icon of Archangel Michael on Naturally Aged Wood
This serigraphy depicts Archangel Michael, the commander of the heavenly host. He is venerated as the patron of the Air Force and shares his feast day with Archangel Gabriel on November 8th.
Archangel Michael is portrayed as a military commander and is typically shown holding a spear. However, in several representations, he also holds a scepter, a symbol of the authority granted to him by God.
Archangel Michael plays a central role in both the Old and New Testaments.
It was he who saved the angelic forces from their fall with the words “Let us attend! Let us stand with fear.” For his boldness, the Triune God gave him the position of “Ruler of the Angelic Hosts,” Archistrategos and Archangel. He, together with all the angels, proclaimed the Thrice-Holy Hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts, heaven and earth are full of His glory.” Additionally, it is believed that by God’s command, the First Parents were driven out of Paradise by Archangel Michael.
He announced to Abraham the necessity of sacrificing his son Isaac, only to later prevent the sacrifice. It was he who appeared to Lot and rescued him and his family from the destruction of Sodom, and also to Jacob, saving him from his brother Esau, who sought to kill him. Furthermore, Archangel Michael led the people of Israel in their exodus from Egypt, appearing as a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, guiding them to the Promised Land.
The iconographer monk who created this depiction of Archangel Michael used a piece of naturally aged wood, which gives the icon a unique aesthetic and collectible value, while simultaneously carrying a piece of Mount Athos’ centuries-old history beyond its borders.
As the icon is handmade and the woodwork is done by hand, there may be slight variations in the wood, but not in the depiction.
The icon is available by special order.
Origin: Mount Athos
Dimensions: 20 x 37 x 2 cm
