Description
Jesus Christ with his hand raised in blessing
This icon of Jesus Christ centers on his face and raised right hand. His head is inclined, and a circular halo with radiating lines surrounds his hair. A blue-green mantle falls over a warm ochre garment. The close composition contains no Gospel book or throne, keeping attention on the blessing gesture and Christ's expression.
Reading the gesture
Blessing belongs to the Gospel's portrayal of Jesus: Luke 24:50-51 describes him blessing his disciples as he departs at the Ascension. This portrait is not a narrative illustration of that event, but the passage provides a biblical setting for contemplation of the raised hand. The gold-tone background sets the figure apart from an everyday landscape, following a familiar convention of sacred art.
For Gospel reading and personal prayer
The uncluttered image suits a home prayer corner, a chapel or a place used for reading Scripture. It can accompany a short Gospel passage followed by quiet prayer. Its emphasis on the face and blessing makes it a distinct choice for someone seeking an image of Christ without the additional symbols of a Sacred Heart or Good Shepherd composition.
Made in Poland on linden wood
Art Christiana makes this icon to order on a linden-wood board with two coats of primer. The image is printed directly onto the prepared surface and finished with decorative gold-tone metal leaf (schlagmetal). A certificate bearing the production year and a hanging fixture are attached to the back.