Icon "Holy Right-Believing Prince Alexander Nevsky"

Icon "Holy Blessed Prince Alexander Nevsky"

Second half of the 19th century

Karelian birch wood, gesso, oil, gilding

Size: 12.5 x 10 cm

Icon "Holy Blessed Prince Alexander Nevsky"

Icon «Holy Prince Alexander Nevsky»

            The icon presents a majestic waist-length depiction of Holy Prince Alexander Nevsky — a legendary military leader, a wise diplomat, and a defender of faith.

He is depicted in military armor and a red mantle lined with ermine fur, with a sword in his right hand, symbolizing readiness to defend the Homeland, while his left hand rests on a table, symbolizing state wisdom and stability. The prince's head is turned three-quarters to the left and crowned with a princely crown. His gaze is directed upwards to the Lord God. Golden rays of radiance emanate from the face of St. Alexander. On the dark brown background, in large Church Slavonic letters, is written: "St. Blag (Blessed) Prince Aleksandr," executed by the confident hand of a master, confirming the high status of the work.

The icon is painted on a small Karelian birch board using oil painting technique in a vibrant and free romantic style. The image of Grand Prince Alexander is filled with powerful spiritual energy, heroic impulse, and sincere faith in the Savior, the Lord God Jesus Christ. The image is painted in a vibrant and free romantic style, which gives the icon unparalleled dynamism, heroic pathos, and powerful spiritual energy.

This icon is a unique example of professional painting, combining the European art school and Orthodox tradition. As an iconographic source, the master used a lithograph by the famous French artist Jacques François Llanta. This makes the work an interesting object for studying the mutual influence of Western European art and icon painting.

His icon is the highest symbol of military valor and invincibility (during his lifetime, the prince did not lose a single battle). This is the best gift for men whose lives are connected with service, protection, and responsibility. The saint is revered as a wise politician who managed to preserve his people in the most difficult times. His image helps those who make complex decisions and lead people. The prince's acceptance of the schema before death reminds us that true greatness lies in humility before God.

The use of Karelian birch and the free pictorial style make this icon a rare antique object of high artistic and collectible value.

Thanks to its rich colors and monumental image, the icon will become an adornment in an office, library, or home prayer room, filling the space with a spirit of courage and nobility. It will become a reliable amulet and a priceless heirloom to be passed down to descendants.