Saint John the Forerunner

This icon depicts John the Baptist, shown in the traditional Byzantine style as Saint John the Forerunner. 

He is portrayed with angelic wings, symbolizing his role as the heavenly messenger who prepared the way for the coming of Christ. In one hand he raises a gesture of blessing and prophecy, while in the other he holds a scroll containing his message of repentance and the call to prepare for the Kingdom of God. His intense and contemplative expression reflects spiritual asceticism, divine inspiration, and unwavering devotion to truth.

Beside him is the symbolic depiction of his severed head upon a platter, representing his martyrdom and sacrifice for the sake of righteousness. His garments combine a rough garment of camel hair with a dark green mantle, emphasizing his life of fasting, humility, and prayer in the wilderness. The large wings and dramatic composition follow the rich theological symbolism of Byzantine iconography, presenting Saint John as both prophet and martyr.

The background is covered with genuine 24-karat gold leaf, carefully applied by hand. The gold used is real 24K gold. The pigments are specially prepared traditional mixtures, following the methods used in historic iconography. These materials make the icon highly durable and resistant, allowing it to be preserved for hundreds of years, as seen in surviving ancient icons.

Each icon is authentic and handmade by skilled iconographers. Every stage of the process is completed by hand. The wooden panel is specially selected and carved by an expert woodcarver, ensuring stability and quality.