The artwork titled “St. Maximus the Greek,” created by the collective referred to as Orthodox Icons, dates back to circa 1850. It is crafted in the traditional genre of religious iconography within the “Saints” series. This icon portrays St. Maximus the Greek, an Orthodox saint who is celebrated for his scholarly work and monastic devotion.
The artwork features a central figure depicted with pronounced spiritual countenance, characteristic of the iconographic style. This saint is illustrated with a halo surrounding his head, indicating his holy status. His visage is rendered with a somber, meditative expression, implying a life deeply immersed in contemplation and ecclesiastical pursuits. He is dressed in monastic garments, conveying simplicity and piety.
The saint is shown with an open scroll in one hand, symbolizing his scholarly contributions and the importance of words and teachings in the Orthodox Christian tradition. The words on the scroll are representative of the saint’s theological writings or teachings. His other hand rests on a table, where traditional iconographic implements, such as ink and a vessel, can be seen. These items, along with the featured writing materials, reinforce the saint’s identity as a man of learning and letters.
The use of golden tones and deliberate stylization of the figure, combined with a precise, linear presentation of the subject’s features and vestments, is typical of the religious art created during this period. The artwork serves as both a venerated object of faith and a historical testament to the enduring aesthetic of Orthodox iconography.
