Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24735

Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24735.

This icon depicts Saint Nicholas of Myra in his bishop’s liturgical robes, showcasing his esteemed role in the Church. He clutches the Gospel, showcasing his commitment to sharing Christ’s teachings.

Born in Patara around 283, an area now in ruins near Kalkan, Turkey, St. Nicholas died in Myra (Lycia) around 348, now known as Demre, Turkey. Both the Eastern and Latin Churches honor him as one of the most venerated saints. People mark his feast days on December 6th, May 9th, and July 29th with numerous customs and observances.

In the first half of the 4th century, St. Nicholas led as the Bishop of Myra in Asia Minor’s Lycia region. This region, once a part of the Roman Empire, later became part of the Byzantine Empire and lies in present-day Turkey. The name Nicholas, coming from the Greek Nikólaos, means “victory of the people” and predates Christianity.

Many revere Saint Nicholas as a patron across different spheres of life. He stands as the patron saint for Russia, children, hopeful mothers, the elderly, travelers, seafarers, judges, lawyers, notaries, pharmacists, landlords, couples wishing for harmonious marriages, and individuals wanting to recover stolen items.

The icon boasts a skillfully engraved bronze or brass Oklad/Riza, further enhanced with silver and gold plating. An attached halo emphasizes St. Nicholas’s divine nature and sanctity. Only the parts of the icon not covered by the oklad feature paint.

Source: Orthodox icon | Saint Nicholas of Myra | Metal oklad | 24735 © 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