16. Saint George

Details

Russian, late 19th century
22.1 x 19.3 cms

Provenance:
Private collection, Germany.

Description:
Saint George is a Warrior Saint, a soldier who suffered martyrdom because of his Christian faith.

According to tradition St George was born in the 3rd century in Cappadocia. He was a soldier in the Roman army under Emperor Diocletian, highly regarded by his fellow soldiers because of his exceptional bravery. Many legends have developed around him over the years. The most famous is his battle with the dragon.

The legend of St George fighting the dragon arose in the twelfth century. The dragon terrorised a city in Libya, demanding a daily sacrifice. The pagan population first sacrificed sheep but, when these animals ran out, turned to the people themselves. Finally fate decreed that the king’s daughter had also to be sacrificed. Then a miracle happened, George appearing on a horse and piercing the dragon in the mouth. The princess tied up the dragon and led him through the city, whereupon George killed him with his sword, saving the life of the princess. As a result of this victory, around a thousand people converted to the Christian faith and were baptised.

St George has been patron saint of England since the 14th century. He is also the patron saint of knights, cavalrymen, archers, fencers, soldiers, scouts and husbands. In Russia he is patron saint of the city of Moscow where, since 1741, the image of St. George in battle with the dragon has been used as the silver mark of the city.

The Orthodox Church celebrates his feast day on April 23.