Orthodox icon | Easter and the 12 Great Feasts | Palekh | 24566

Orthodox icon | Easter and the 12 Great Feasts | Palekh | 24566.

The central image shows Christ’s resurrection and descent into the realm of the dead. He stands triumphantly atop the shattered gates, freeing Adam, Eve, and other righteous figures. In the top left, Peter stands at the empty tomb, while the bottom right depicts Jesus and Peter at the Sea of Galilee.

The series of feasts depicted, from left to right:

1. Birth of the Mother of God (September 21 or September 8): Anna reclines, attended by servants. Joachim prays at the head. Below, the child is bathed with care.
2. Presentation of the Mother of God (December 4 or November 21): Mary encounters Zacharias on the temple stairs, with Joachim, Anna, and a virgin behind.
3. Annunciation of the Mother of God (April 7 or March 25): The Archangel Gabriel appears to Mary, while God instructs Gabriel. A pause is depicted on the left.
4. Birth of Christ (January 7 or December 25): Jesus is born in a cave. The Blessed Mother rests, wise men approach, Joseph ponders, and doubt is symbolized.
5. Presentation of Jesus at the Temple (February 15 or February 2): Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple. Simeon holds the child.
6. Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan (January 19 or January 6): Jesus stands in the river with John the Baptist. Angels and the Holy Spirit are present.
7. Entry into Jerusalem: Christ enters Jerusalem, accompanied by disciples and greeted by people.
8. Transfiguration of Christ (August 19 or August 6): Jesus, Moses, and Elijah appear in glory. Disciples John, James, and Peter react.
9. Ascension of Christ: Christ ascends to heaven on the Mount of Olives. The Mother of God and apostles are present.
10. Feast of the Cross/Exaltation of the Cross (September 27 or September 14): The Patriarch of Jerusalem presents the cross. Helena retrieves a piece.
11. Pentecost: Abraham receives three angelic visitors. He kneels before them at a table.
12. Dormition of the Mother of God (August 28 or August 15): The Mother of God lies on a bed, surrounded by apostles. Christ holds the soul of the Mother of God.

The icon features a gilded background adorned with engraved and painted ornaments. The meticulous miniature painting showcases the renowned style of Palech, known for delicate gold details.

Source: Orthodox icon | Easter and the 12 Great Feasts | Palekh | 24566 © Ikonen Mautner. Typing errors, other errors or changes reserved. For more information: “Das Synaxarion. Die Leben der Heiligen der Orthodoxen Kirche.” (http://www.prodromos-verlag.de/buecher.html) and Joachim Schäfer: Das Ökumenische Heiligenlexikon – https://www.heiligenlexikon.de