Description
Saint Arcadius of Mauretania Icon
Saint Arcadius is remembered as an early Christian martyr of Caesarea in Mauretania, near present-day Cherchell in Algeria. The Roman Martyrology recounts that he lived in hiding during a persecution, then surrendered voluntarily when a relative was arrested in his place. He refused to sacrifice to the Roman gods and died after severe torture. His memorial is observed on January 12. Sources differ on the precise year and imperial persecution, so this description does not assign a birth date or an unsupported chronology.
A frontal portrait without narrative attributes
The icon presents Arcadius frontally in layered green garments, with one hand raised and the other held near his chest. The calm face, direct gaze, halo, and gold field identify him within the conventional language of sacred portraiture. No palm, instrument of martyrdom, or historical setting appears in this particular image. Its meaning therefore depends on the inscription and the saint's received identity rather than on a detailed illustration of his martyrdom.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Art Christiana makes this icon in Poland on a carefully prepared linden wood board. The surface receives two primer coats, hand-applied metal leaf, and a directly transferred image. A certificate and hanging fixture are fitted on the reverse, and the icon arrives in a protective presentation box.
The icon suits a home prayer corner, chapel, parish room, or a gift for someone named Arcadius. It can accompany prayer about courage, conscience, and fidelity under pressure, without turning the violence of martyrdom into spectacle or claiming a patronage not securely documented.