Exquisitely painted in the high Byzantine
tradition, a style whose roots can be traced back
to the Hellenistic age, the two saints Jacob and
Diomedes originally formed part of a procession
of saints in an orthodox cathedral. Though
painted on a flat surface, their elegant and
classical robes give them a weighty, sculptural
quality. Their faces, as befits holy persons,
appear gentle and compassionate. The frame and
background are rendered in the ornate
decorative patterns so beloved of the Orthodox
Church. A true masterpiece, this magnificent icon
transcends the boundaries of faith to leave a
spiritual impression on all who see it.
- (PF.1239)
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