Description
Saint Bartholomew the Apostle — a witness to Christ without duplicity
Bartholomew is named among the Twelve Apostles in the Synoptic Gospels. Christian tradition often associates him with Nathanael in John’s Gospel, the Israelite whom Jesus praised as being “without deceit,” although the identification is not stated explicitly in Scripture. Later tradition remembers Bartholomew as a missionary and martyr who remained faithful to the Gospel.
Iconography and theological meaning
The apostle holds a scroll, the traditional sign of the teaching entrusted to Christ’s witnesses. His direct expression emphasizes integrity and readiness to testify, while the halo and gold-toned field place his historical mission within the continuing communion of the Church. The restrained composition focuses attention on apostolic faith rather than the violence associated with later accounts of his martyrdom.
For prayer and Christian devotion
This Saint Bartholomew icon is meaningful for missionaries, clergy, catechists, people named Bartholomew, and anyone praying for honesty and courage under pressure. It encourages a faith without duplicity and perseverance in speaking the truth with charity.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
The image is printed directly on a double-primed linden wood panel and finished with decorative gold-tone schlagmetal. Made to order in Poland, it includes a metal wall hanger and a certificate marked with the year of production.