The Russian Icon

On Christ's left is the spear with which he was pierced and on His right the sponge on a reed with which He was given a drink.

in accordance with Jewish custom.

a very popular saint in the Orthodox Churches with, top left, Christ and, top right, Virgin Mary.

by John the Baptist in the River Jordan.

Orthodox tradition has this taking place in a cave rather than a stable. There are several ‘sub plots’ going on in this icon.

in accordance with Jewish custom.

when the Angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary she was to be the mother of Christ.

surrounded by a wreath and angels outside.

or Virgin of the Sign with the Christ Child at her heart.

surrounded by the Four Evangelists

a ring of Six Winged Seraphim - guardians of God's throne Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke.

adored by Angels; at His feet the Holy Spirit, represented by the dove.

What was believed to be Christ's cross was ‘rediscovered’ outside the walls of Jerusalem by St Helena, mother of Constantine the Great who made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Christ riding a donkey; onlookers with palm leaves.

Christ descends to Hell, tramples down the gates and raises Adam from the dead.

the apostles and the Virgin Mary below, with Christ above surrounded by angels in heaven.

Abraham unwittingly entertains 3 Angels, often taken as a symbol of the Holy Trinity.

the coming of the Holy Spirit to the disciples, (in the centre the Virgin Mary, who is not normally shown in this icon until the 17^thC).

on the mountain meeting with Moses and Elijah, with disciples Peter, James, and John, below.

aka The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Western Church.