Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus

Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus – the Mandylion of divine presence

The Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus is one of the oldest and most venerated depictions in Christian art. In Byzantine tradition it is known as the Mandylion – the miraculous imprint of Christ’s face on a cloth, left as a sign of His presence among the faithful. This icon has been a source of prayer, devotion, and contemplation for centuries.

Why is the Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus so special?

According to ancient tradition, Christ sent His image to King Abgar of Edessa as a sign of divine power and healing. From then on, the image became a testimony of Christ’s living presence.

The Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus focuses entirely on His face. His gaze is filled with mercy and love yet also with majesty. The cross-shaped halo symbolizes His divinity and victory over death. The white cloth reflects purity and light.

What role does the Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus play in prayer?

In the Church’s tradition, an icon is more than an image – it is a place of encounter with God. The Mandylion has accompanied monastic and personal prayer for centuries. Looking into Christ’s eyes in the icon, the believer feels His closeness and can enter into a deeper dialogue of faith.

This icon:

• strengthens communion with Christ,

• invites to contemplation,

• supports both personal and communal prayer,

• reminds of the Savior’s presence.

Is the Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus a meaningful religious gift?

Yes. The Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus is a perfect religious gift for baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and anniversaries. It brings a prayerful spirit into the home and serves as a lasting reminder of Christ’s love.

Why should you keep a Mandylion icon at home?

The Mandylion is considered an acheiropoietos – “not made by human hands.” It confirms the truth of the Incarnation: God became man, and His face could be seen and remembered.

Having the icon in one’s home is more than decoration – it is a witness to faith and an invitation to prayer. Christ’s face radiates mercy and divine beauty.

How is the Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus made?

The Icon of the Holy Face of Jesus is crafted on a linden wood board, carefully primed twice. It is gilded by hand with metal leaf to highlight its sacred dimension. The image is applied with direct print technology, ensuring precise detail. Finally, it is hand-varnished for durability and long-lasting beauty.