Saint Perpetua & Saint Felicity Icon

Saint Perpetua & Saint Felicity – an icon of sisterhood, courage and faith strengthened by martyrdom

This icon depicts Saint Perpetua and Saint Felicity, two young Christian martyrs from Carthage whose testimony has inspired believers for nearly eighteen centuries. Standing closely together, they embody unity through suffering. Perpetua, wrapped in green tones of serenity and hope, lowers her head in humble prayer. Felicity, clothed in warm earthy shades, lifts her hand as if offering her heart to God. The golden background radiates divine light, not as decoration but as a symbol of eternal glory in which they now stand. Their haloes shine like crowns of victory, a reminder that faith triumphs not through power, but through love offered even unto death.

This icon is more than an image – it is a story of friendship and fidelity to Christ, a window into courage that does not boast, but endures. It brings into a room an atmosphere of peace, conviction, and feminine spiritual strength. One feels that these two women walk together, pray together, and stand as witnesses for all who must choose truth over fear.

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Who were Saint Perpetua and Saint Felicity?

Noblewoman and slave – united in Christ

Perpetua was a young noblewoman and new convert to Christianity. Felicity was a slave, also a believer. Socially they could not have been further apart, yet in Christ they became sisters. Arrested during the persecutions under Septimius Severus, they refused to renounce their faith even when promised safety in exchange. Perpetua was a mother nursing her infant son; Felicity was pregnant at the time. In prison they supported each other with prayer and hope while awaiting execution.

Felicity gave birth just days before their martyrdom. Perpetua entrusted her own child to her family, believing that God would care for him more than she could. They were led into the arena to be mocked and killed, yet accounts describe them as radiant, joyful and fearless. Their death did not silence them – their witness became a seed that continues to bear fruit across centuries.

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The message of this icon – unity, courage and sanctity shared

In this icon, we do not see tragedy. We see victory in love, friendship in suffering, dignity in sacrifice. Perpetua’s green cloak suggests life and hope. Felicity’s warmer tones speak of martyrdom and burning charity. Their closeness reminds that faith is not lived alone – it is strengthened in communion. The slightly lowered posture of Perpetua reveals acceptance and peace; Felicity’s uplifted hand speaks of intercession, protection and praise.

This icon can become a spiritual companion for women, mothers, those carrying heavy responsibilities, those persecuted for faith or values, and anyone who needs the reminder that holiness can grow in ordinary and painful places. Their witness tells us: courage is born when love is greater than fear.

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Craftsmanship – linden wood, gilding and UV direct print

The icon is crafted on solid, primed linden wood, then gilded using traditional methods. The image is printed directly over the gold using UV technology, ensuring durability, vivid colours and sharp detail. Under candlelight the gold surface breathes with warmth, shifting softly like a living flame. The icon arrives ready to hang, requiring no frame – its form is complete as it is.

Placed in a living room, prayer corner, chapel, bedroom or near an entrance, it fills the space with quiet reverence. In a parish office or monastery it stands as a reminder of steadfast devotion. In a home it becomes a call to prayer, a place to return to when the heart is tired or troubled.

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Why keep this icon in your home?

Because Perpetua and Felicity remind us that faith is stronger than fear. Because holiness is not distant – it grows where love is freely given. Looking at them encourages perseverance: life may press, but Christ sustains. Their presence speaks to mothers letting go, to believers facing ridicule, to those who struggle to choose the Gospel when it costs something.

As a gift, this icon holds depth. It carries a blessing with it. It is suitable for baptisms, confirmations, professions of faith, religious vows, birthdays, for consecrated women or anyone who finds strength in the witness of saints. It is a gift that remains, that one returns to again and again.

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The heart of the icon

In their eyes we see gentleness and strength intertwined. A hand raised in prayer, a shoulder leaned in comfort. Their closeness tells the story: God joins those whom the world keeps apart. A moment before this icon can become a wordless prayer, a breath of peace, a place where wounds are placed into God’s hands.

Saint Perpetua and Saint Felicity seem to whisper:
“Stand firm. Love Him more than your fear.”

This icon becomes not only sacred art, but a light for the soul, a reminder that heaven begins wherever love is faithful.