Description
Christ and Abba Menas, the Coptic image called the Icon of Friendship
This composition reproduces the celebrated Coptic icon Christ and Abbot Mena in the Louvre. The museum dates the original to the eighth century and records its discovery at Bawit in Middle Egypt, where it belonged to the monastery of Apa Apollo. It is not an icon from Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Sinai. The modern name Icon of Friendship reflects a devotional reading popularized especially through the Taizé Community, rather than the original museum title.
Christ’s arm, jeweled Gospel, cross halo, and Abba Menas
Christ stands beside Abba Menas, places an arm across his shoulder, and holds a richly decorated Gospel book. The cross within Christ’s halo identifies him; the Coptic inscriptions name the figures. Menas raises his right hand in a restrained gesture. The frontal figures, large eyes, earth-toned garments, and worn surface reproduce the direct visual language of early Coptic Christian art. The shoulder gesture supports the later interpretation of Christ as the friend who draws near.
For Christian friendship, accompaniment, community, and reconciliation
The image can accompany meditation on Christ’s words, I have called you friends, and prayer for faithful companionship, reconciliation, spiritual direction, and communities learning to walk together. It is well suited to a home prayer corner, monastery, retreat center, chaplaincy, counseling room, or parish meeting space. As a gift, it is especially meaningful for a friend, mentor, priest, religious community, married couple, or ecumenical group.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, with direct printing and decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included.