Set against lovely pale blue enamel decorated with delicate foliage, the two low-relief images of Christ and St. John the Baptist present a striking picture. On the left panel Christ holds an open book upon which is written, " Come to me all those in need, for you shall be saved." His clothing is beautifully modeled with considerable detail, as is the very fine beard and hair. On the right panel is the winged St. John the Baptist (or 'Forerunner'), who lovingly cradles the infant Jesus as he baptizes Him. His wearing angel-like wings proclaims him as a divine messenger. This image also symbolizes the future baptism of Jesus by St. John, which marked a pivotal point in Christ's spiritual life. The inscription in Cyrillic states, "St. John the Baptist"; who is nonetheless, instantly identified not only by the act of baptism, but also by the rough garment of a desert ascetic. Within this very fine icon we see two worlds, the world of flesh and the realm of the spirit; of the past being present here and now, while eternity too is present as an ever living possibility for the faithful.