H2574

Prophet Elijah

Region: Russia
Period: 17th century
Size: 64,5 x 42 cm

Description

The name Elijah means “My God is YHWH”. Elijah is one of the most important prophets of the Old Testament. Elijah is a protector against drought of the land and was therefore frequently depicted in the rural areas of the North in ancient Russia. This icon clearly shows that Elijah spent a long time in the desert as an ascetic. The long hair, the thin face are examples of this and make the painting very powerful. The feast of Elijah is celebrated on July 20.