On the upper portion of this fine icon is the exaltation of the cross by high ranking members of the Orthodox Church; each dressed in gorgeous vestments with an architectural...
On the upper portion of this fine icon is the exaltation of the cross by high ranking members of the Orthodox Church; each dressed in gorgeous vestments with an architectural setting of medieval Russia in the background. From top left following clockwise--the Resurrection of Christ as he greets His disciples; His Ascension into heaven; the Dormition 'falling asleep' of the Virgin Mary; and her enthronement. Each of these scenes are richly ornamented and very detailed, given perspective by various elements--arches and architraves, clouds and domes set against a beautiful blue with dramatic touches of white. This icon seems like a door of a great Church, magnified beyond its size by the grandeur of its themes.