The artwork, titled “S. Simon,” was created by the artists of Byzantine mosaics around the year 1025. It is a mosaic from the Middle Byzantine period, specifically during the Macedonian Renaissance (867–1056), and falls within the genre of religious painting. The piece is part of the series located at the Hosios Loukas Monastery in Distomo, Greece, where it remains on display today.
In the artwork, Saint Simon is depicted in a traditional Byzantine style, characterized by a solemn and expressive visage, adorned with a short beard and receding hairline. His attire is simple yet indicative of his saintly status, featuring a robe typical of the period. The background is composed of gold tesserae, creating a radiant halo effect around the saint. Saint Simon holds a scroll in his left hand, symbolizing his association with theological wisdom and scripture. The use of bright, contrasting colors and fine detail in the facial features exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship of Byzantine mosaicists and reflects the religious devotion of the era.
