The artwork entitled “Saint Demetrius” is attributed to the artist known as Orthodox Icons and dates back to approximately c. 1500 – c. 1550. This icon, crafted using tempera, wood, and gold, belongs to the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance period, specifically within the Macedonian school of icon painting. Measuring 54 x 37 cm, the piece depicts a religious figure and is part of a series dedicated to saints. Currently, the artwork resides in the Pushkin Museum in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork portrays Saint Demetrius mounted on a horse, depicted in the traditional Byzantine iconographic style. The saint is shown carrying a lance, which he thrusts towards a figure beneath the horse, likely symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The background is resplendent with gold leaf, enhancing the divine aura surrounding the saint. The use of tempera on wood, coupled with the intricate detailing and rich color palette, exemplifies the craftsmanship typical of the period and the Macedonian school of icon painting. The aged and cracked surface of the painting adds historical depth, suggesting its venerable age and the reverence it has garnered over centuries.
