The artwork titled “John Climacus, George and Blasius” is a tempera painting created by “Orthodox Icons” between circa 1250 and circa 1300. It belongs to the Novgorod school of icon painting and measures 108.7 x 67.5 cm. This artwork represents the genre of icons and is part of the “Saints” series. It is currently housed in the Russian Museum, located in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The artwork depicts three holy figures: at the center stands John Climacus, a revered monk, with George depicted on the left and Blasius on the right. Each figure is rendered with an aura of sacred significance, with delicate halos adorning their heads. John Climacus, the largest figure, is portrayed in rich ecclesiastical attire, holding a book and making a gesture of benediction. To his left, George is dressed in warrior’s garb, holding a spear, symbolizing his role as a soldier saint. To the right, Blasius is depicted in the attire of a bishop, holding a cross. The background of the artwork is a vivid red, a common feature in icons to signify the divine radiance and the eternal presence of the saints. The figures are characterized by their solemn expressions, symbolic gestures, and the detailed, almost hieratic style that is typical of the Novgorod school. The artwork bears the marks of age, with visible cracks and wear that add to its historical authenticity and sacred resonance.
