The artwork, titled “Saints of Sinai,” was created by an artist known as Orthodox Icons between the years 1200 and approximately 1225. It belongs to the Middle Byzantine art movement, specifically during the period of the Latin Empire of Constantinople (1204-1261). As a part of the genre of religious icons, this artwork is from the series “Saints” and is currently located at Saint Catherine’s Monastery, Mount Sinai, Egypt.
The “Saints of Sinai” depicts a collection of religious figures arranged in rows, with Christ enthroned at the top center, encircled by a mandorla, and attended by two saints. Below them, numerous saints are displayed in organized rows, each distinct in their attire and posture, indicative of their unique status and veneration within the ecclesiastical hierarchy. The background is golden, typical of Byzantine iconography, symbolizing divine light and the heavenly realm. The artwork’s vivid and rich colors highlight the figures, while the overall composition reflects a formal, solemn religious ambiance characteristic of Byzantine religious art. The use of a red and orange palette along the borders further enhances the sacred and regal nature of the piece. The icon, despite its age, remains a quintessential representation of Byzantine piety and artistic tradition.