Description
Saint Simon Stock and the Carmelite tradition
Simon Stock was an English Carmelite who served as prior general during the order’s medieval development in Europe. Carmelite devotion links him with a vision of the Virgin Mary and the gift of the Brown Scapular in 1251, but the surviving accounts are considerably later than his lifetime. The episode is therefore best understood as Carmelite devotional tradition, not securely documented biography. His Carmelite feast is May 16.
Lilies, book and Brown Scapular
The elderly friar wears the brown Carmelite habit and white mantle. White lilies signify purity and consecrated life, while the small book refers to prayer, learning and his responsibility for the order. The hanging cloth badges identify the Brown Scapular and carry Christian and Marian signs. As a sacramental, the scapular expresses belonging, prayer and commitment to a Christian life; it is not a magical object or an automatic guarantee of salvation.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, the image is printed directly onto the prepared surface and finished with decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate recording the year of production and a wall hanger are included. This is a contemporary devotional icon, not an individually hand-painted work.
For Carmelite prayer and faithful commitment
The icon suits a home prayer corner, Carmelite community, parish room, chapel or sacristy. It can support reflection on Marian discipleship, perseverance in religious vocation and fidelity to daily prayer. It is also a thoughtful gift for people enrolled in the Brown Scapular or connected with Carmelite spirituality, provided the devotion is presented within the sacramental life of the Church.