The artwork, titled “Christ Pantokrator,” attributed to the artist collective known as “Orthodox Icons,” dates from approximately 1280. It belongs to the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance art movement, which spans the period from 1261 to 1453. This icon, part of the “Christ the Savior” series, is housed in Hilandar Monastery, located on Mount Athos in Greece. The artwork epitomizes the icon genre, which is integral to Byzantine sacred art and religious tradition.
In this piece, Christ Pantokrator is depicted in a frontal position, presenting a solemn and authoritative presence. His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing, while his left hand holds a richly decorated red book, symbolizing the Gospels. The face of Christ is rendered with intricate detail, highlighting the serene yet commanding expression typical of the Pantokrator iconography. The use of gold in the background emphasizes the divine nature of the figure, creating a sense of ethereal illumination. The overall composition is typical of Byzantine icons, where the spiritual essence and theological significance are conveyed through precise and symbolic artistic techniques.
