Description
Saint Giles and the hermit's vocation
Saint Giles, also known as Aegidius, is associated with the abbey of Saint-Gilles in southern France. His veneration spread widely through medieval Europe, and his feast is observed on September 1. The title on this icon identifies him as a hermit, emphasizing a life centered on prayer and withdrawal from distraction.
The elderly saint faces the viewer with a gray beard and a plain wooden staff. A pale tunic appears beneath a deep navy cloak, whose broad folds give the portrait a restrained character. A halo and gilded background frame the head. The English inscription reads Saint Giles the Hermit; the composition focuses on the person rather than a scene from his legend.
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
This image is suited to a quiet place for daily prayer or a parish space associated with Saint Giles. It can be a personal gift for someone bearing his name or interested in the Christian tradition of contemplative life.