Orthodox icon | Saint Great Martyr George the Victorious | 24419
SKU:
- Typ: Russian icon
- Age: Beginning of the 19th century
- Size: 30.5 x 27 cm | 12 x 10.6 in
Description
Orthodox icon | Saint Great Martyr George the Victorious | 24419.
Often portrayed as a gallant soldier astride a horse, Saint George the Victorious is celebrated on April 23rd.
The Legend of Saint George:
Legend tells of a formidable dragon that terrorized a city. It demanded human sacrifices and threatened to obliterate the populace with its deadly breath. A lottery chose the unlucky victims. Sadly, the lot fell on the king’s daughter. With heavy hearts, they brought the princess to the dragon’s dwelling – the lake.
In a divine twist of fate, a knight named George, hailing from Cappadocia, appeared to confront the monstrous beast. Brandishing a lance adorned with the sign of the cross, George bravely engaged the dragon in battle.
As George delivered a decisive thrust, he injured the beast, sparing the princess from her dire fate. Following this unexpected event, he instructed the king’s daughter to wrap her belt around the dragon’s neck and guide it back to the city.
The city’s residents, paralyzed by fear, yearned to flee. However, sensing their dread, George proposed a solemn pact – he would eradicate the menace of the dragon if they converted to Christianity. Inspired by his unwavering faith, the citizens embraced his offer, got baptized, and renounced their previous beliefs. True to his word, George bravely overcame the dragon, liberating the city from its reign of terror.
Meanwhile, from a lofty vantage point, the parents of the princess bore witness to this heroic event, observing George’s exceptional courage as he subdued the fearsome creature. In recognition of his victory, an angel descended to crown Saint George, commemorating his extraordinary achievement.
Top of the icon:
The image of Christ Pantocrator, the almighty ruler, soars above this scene. It blesses Saint George and emphasizes the spiritual importance of his brave actions. This portrayal stands as a testament to faith’s victory and Saint George’s unyielding commitment to promoting righteousness amid adversity.