25. Evangelist Saint John

Details

Russian, second half 19th century
72 x 31 cms

Provenance:
Private collection, Germany.

Description:
The icon shows the Evangelist St John in full-length. He holds the Gospel in his left hand.

The Apostle and Evangelist St John is also called St John the Theologian. He and his brother were fishermen until both were called by Christ to follow Him. Together with Andrew and Peter, they were amongst the first disciples. According to tradition, Saint John is the author of five books in the New Testament: the fourth Gospel, three letters and the Book of Revelation, called the Apocalypse.

John is the patron saint of painters, sculptors, writers and book printers, engravers, theologians, notaries, and basket makers. Saint John is also the patron saint of friendships.

The Orthodox Church celebrates his feast day on September 26 and May 8.

The icon originally was part of an iconostasis.