Orthodox icon | Tetraptych | 24882

The full bronze, brass, or yellow metal travel Tetraptych is a captivating masterpiece that encapsulates the most significant festivities in Orthodox Christianity. Its four wings unfold to reveal an array of sacred scenes and revered icons, inviting the faithful to embark on a spiritual journey through the rich tapestry of Orthodox traditions.

1. Wing: Crucifixion, Annunciation, Birth of Christ, Birth of the Mother of God, Presentation of the Mother of God.

The first wing unveils the foundational events of Christianity. The central panel depicts the solemn Crucifixion, where Jesus, the Son of God, sacrificed Himself on the cross for the redemption of humanity. To the left, the Annunciation unfolds, with the angel Gabriel appearing to the Virgin Mary, announcing the miraculous conception of Jesus. On the right, we witness the humble Birth of Christ, where the Son of God entered the world in a Bethlehem manger. Adjacent to it, the Birth of the Mother of God celebrates the blessed origin of Mary, who would become the vessel for God’s incarnation. Finally, the Presentation of the Mother of God in the temple highlights the devout consecration of Mary as a young child, foreshadowing her pivotal role in salvation history.

2. Wing: Holy Trinity, Presentation of Christ, Baptism of Jesus, Transfiguration of Christ, Entry into Jerusalem.

The second wing unfolds to reveal a series of profound moments in the life of Jesus. At the center, the Holy Trinity shines in divine glory, embodying the eternal bond between God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. To the left, the Presentation of Christ in the Temple showcases the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah by the aged Simeon and the prophetess Anna. The Baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan, a momentous event performed by John the Baptist, symbolizes the initiation of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The Transfiguration of Christ on a mountaintop unveils His divine radiance before His closest disciples, revealing His true nature. Finally, the Entry into Jerusalem portrays Jesus’ triumphant arrival in the city, where He is hailed as the long-awaited Messiah by the jubilant crowds.

3. Wing: Exaltation of the Cross, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, Dormition of the Mother of God.

The third wing embodies the major feasts and milestones in the liturgical calendar. The Exaltation of the Cross commemorates the veneration of the holy cross, a symbol of salvation and triumph over sin and death. Easter, the pinnacle of the Christian year, celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering hope and eternal life to believers. The Ascension portrays the glorious moment when Jesus ascends to heaven, fulfilling His earthly mission. Pentecost signifies the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, empowering them to spread the Gospel and establish the early Church. The Dormition of the Mother of God signifies the peaceful falling asleep of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as she is received into heavenly glory.

4. Wing: Icons of the Mother of God with various local saints.

The fourth and final wing showcases a collection of revered icons depicting the Mother of God alongside various local saints. The icons include “All Creation Rejoices in Thee,” a powerful image that exemplifies the universality of Mary’s intercession. The Mother of God of Tikhvin, Vladimir, Smolensk, and Novgorod each hold a distinct place of honor in Orthodox devotion, representing the deep spiritual connection between Mary and specific regions or communities.

This full bronze, brass, or yellow metal travel Tetraptych serves as a spiritual companion, guiding the faithful through the essential festivities and revered icons of Orthodox Christianity.

Source: © 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