The use of an 'encasement' of silver, known as 'Oklad', over an oil painting was particularly popular in Russia for religious works of art. Jesus' beautifully ornate vestment, book and halo give a three dimensional effect, with the result that Christ's face and persona stand out more vividly. The inscription on the book reads, "I give you the new law, to love each other." He offers His blessings to the viewer with his right hand raised, as his intense eyes stare with great depth and limitless compassion. The contrast between the glittering gilt and the more somber oil painting, reminds us of the beauty of the temporal world versus the more humble, but much more beautiful, life of the spirit.