Authentic icon "Christ Enthroned"

Authentic icon "Christ enthroned" with the four evangelists - Matthew, John, Mark and Luke

What is the meaning of the four symbols for the evangelists?

• MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST: The first gospel, that of the writer Matthew, begins with a genealogy - the human family tree of Jesus Christ. Because of this human beginning, Matthew is given the symbol man.
• MARK THE EVANGELIST: The second gospel in the Bible was written by Mark. Since at the beginning of his gospel Mark writes about John the Baptist and his sojourn in the desert, and since he also mentions that Jesus remained in the desert, Mark is given the lion as a symbol. At the time of Christ, there were lions in the wilderness.
• LUKE THE EVANGELIST: Luke is given the ox as a symbol because he is talking about Zechariah who, at the beginning of the third gospel, makes a sacrifice in the temple of Jerusalem.
• EVANGELIST JOHN: The fourth and last gospel is depicted with an eagle. This is related to the high philosophical flight that this evangelist takes to convey his message. From a distance, he describes the life and message of Jesus Christ with a sharp eye.

The materials and paints used are based on original technology for creation of Orthodox icons. The texture of the frame is handmade, using old Byzantine technology. It is done via accumulation of the material, which requires a lot of time. The drawing is done with egg tempera paints, according to a classic recipe. Patina and various varnishes were used to give the icon an aged look. Cracking varnish was also added, for greater authenticity of the icon.

This lovely work of art is signed by the artist, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.