Description
St. Charles Borromeo: archbishop of Milan
St. Charles Borromeo is shown with his hands joined in prayer, wearing a red cardinal's robe with white sleeves and a pectoral cross. The inscription names him in English. These details identify his place in the Church, while the halo marks the portrait as a devotional image rather than a scene from a particular event in his life.
Charles Borromeo (1538-1584) was a cardinal and archbishop of Milan who put the reforms of the Council of Trent into practice in his diocese. He developed seminary formation, visited parishes, and worked to strengthen religious instruction and the pastoral responsibilities of priests. During the plague of 1576-1577, he organized relief for those affected. Pope Paul V canonized him in 1610; his liturgical memorial is November 4.
His joined hands give prayer a visible place alongside the responsibilities suggested by his clothing. The icon can be used in a seminary, rectory, or home prayer space, particularly by someone named Charles or interested in the history of Catholic reform. It is also a relevant gift for ordination or a priest's anniversary, connecting a specific saint's life with pastoral service.
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.