Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Mozhaysk | Painting School of Palekh | 20528

A miraculous icon from the city of Mozhaisk. Saint Nicholas is dressed in liturgical vestments as a bishop. In his hands he holds a sword and a small church. He is flanked by Christ and the Mother of God.

In the margin: Saint Venerable Hilarion of Gaza and Saint Martyr Uar.

Saint Nicholas was born around 283 in Patara, now ruins near Kalkan in Turkey, and died around 348 in Myra, now Demre in Turkey. He is considered one of the most famous saints of the Eastern and Latin Church. Its feast days, December 6th, May 9th and July 29th, are associated with numerous customs. His Greek name “Nikólaos” means “victory of the people” and was already used in pre-Christian times.

Saint Hilarion of Gaza, “the Great” (October 21), was a hermit and abbot. He was born in Gaza around 290 and died in Cyprus in 372, where many churches bear his name.

Saint Martyr Uar (November 1) lived in Egypt during the persecution of Christians. As a general and secret Christian, he supported the persecuted and prisoners because of their faith.

Palekh painting school.