Description
Fiacre, patron saint of gardeners
Saint Fiacre is remembered as an Irish monk and hermit who settled near Meaux in France in the seventh century. His tradition connects prayer, hospitality and the labor of tending a garden. Venerated as a patron of gardeners, he is commonly shown with a spade, as in this full-length image.
The elderly saint wears brown and pale monastic robes with a blue belt. He holds a long-handled spade beside vegetables and plants at his feet. A large unfurled scroll carries an English prayer for gardens and their fruitfulness. The English name, halo and gilded background identify the religious subject of this garden-themed composition.
Made on linden wood in Poland
Art Christiana makes this icon to order in Poland on a linden wood panel prepared with two layers of primer. The image is printed directly onto the prepared wood, and decorative metal leaf, known as schlagmetal, is applied by hand to the gilded areas. This is a printed icon with hand-finished gilding. A certificate bearing the year of production and a hanging fixture are included.
For prayer and contemplation
The icon is a considered gift for a gardener, grower or someone who finds time for reflection through working with plants. Display it in an indoor prayer space or room associated with gardening, where the scroll and its message can be appreciated.