The artwork, titled “Saint Nikita slaying the demon (Paleh),” was created circa 1850 by the artist Orthodox Icons. This piece belongs to the genre of iconography and is part of the series depicting Saints.
The artwork portrays Saint Nikita, a prominent figure in Orthodox Christianity, in a vivid and heroic scene. The saint is depicted in mid-action, triumphantly slaying a demon. His martial stance and the details of his armor and clothing are meticulously rendered, embodying the traditional aesthetic of Orthodox iconography. The demon, represented as a dark, winged figure, recoils at the saint’s powerful strike. The background is adorned with architectural elements, suggesting a sacred or significant location. This work exemplifies the intricate style and rich symbolism characteristic of icons from this period, emphasizing themes of righteousness and divine intervention.
