St. Nicholas
Oil on wood panel
5.5" x 9.5"

This Icon of St. Nicholas has always been one of my favorites, so no surprise I just had to write it! And, by the way, yes “write”. Why “write”? It comes from the Seventh Ecumenical Council of 787AD, when it was proclaimed that Icons are in color what the Scripture is in words. So we believe that it is God’s truth written in images and color, and not merely artwork painted by the artist.

This Icon of St. Nicholas is said to be written in 13th-14th century. The solid red background, linear treatment of subject, detailed depictions of the face and clothing – are all characteristics of Novgorod School. Solemn facial expression of the Saint combined with vibrant color used throughout the Icon create rich celebratory feel, also typical of Novgorod Icons of later time(1). St. Nicholas is shown waist-length, clothed in Episcopal vestment. He is giving a blessing with his right hand, holding a Gospel in his left. If you have four minutes of free time, you can listen to this short podcast on St. Nicholas from the Ancient Faith Radio.