Orthodox icon | Extended Deesis | 24812

The thematic models are the oriental Marian legends. After them, the Mother of God and John the Baptist ask the World Judge for mercy for humanity at the Last Judgment. The Deesis is the central theme of the Templon or Iconostas. The first examples date from the middle of the 1st century. After the image controversy, the subject was fully formed. It is widespread and very common throughout the Christian East.

In the center sits the enthroned Christ as the judge of the world or Pantocrator, flanked by the Mother of God and John the Forerunner and Baptist. In between the Archangels Michael and Gabriel.

At his feet are kneeling Saints Venerable Zosimas, Abbot of Solovki Monastery (April 17) and Sabbatius, Founder of Solovki Monastery (September 27).

around the back:

• Saint Venerable Athanasius the Hermit (September 28)
• Saint Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian (May 8 and September 26)
• Saint Apostle and Evangelist Peter (June 29)
• Saint Paul the Apostle and Evangelist (June 29)
• Saint Andrew the Apostle (November 30)
• Saint Venerable Michael, monk in Maleinos (July 12)

Above: God the Father.

In the margin:

• Saint Martyr and Daikon Lawrence of Rome (August 10)
• Saint Venerable Xenia (January 24)
• Saint Martyr Aquilina (April 7)
• Saint Venerable Sergius of Radonezh (July 5 and September 25).

Poliment gilded background.