Description
Martha and Mary of Bethany
Martha and Mary of Bethany were the sisters of Lazarus and friends of Jesus. Their shared household is associated with hospitality and attentive listening in Luke 10:38-42. In John 11, Martha makes an explicit profession of faith in Jesus before Lazarus is raised. Mary of Bethany should not be confused with Mary Magdalene.
The icon places Mary on the left in blue and rose-colored garments, holding a small vessel. It recalls her anointing of Jesus in John 12. Martha stands on the right with a cross, a devotional sign of Christian faith rather than an object mentioned in the Gospel visit. Above the sisters, Christ's face appears on a cloth. The English inscriptions distinguish the two women.
The paired figures offer a subject for a household, sisters, or a community whose daily life combines prayer and hospitality. Their story allows reflection on both serving others and making room to listen. Since the 2021 calendar decree, the Roman Catholic memorial on July 29 names Martha, Mary, and Lazarus together; this particular image depicts the two sisters.
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.