CHRIST PANTOCRATOR OF SINAI, ENCAUSTIC

This icon was hand-painted using the ancient technique of encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting. It involves the use of heated beeswax with colored pigments added. The liquid or paste is then applied to a surface, typically prepared wood, but canvas and other materials are also commonly used.

Christ Pantocrator is a six-century-old painted wood panel from St. Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, Egypt. This painting is considered one of the oldest Byzantine religious icons and the first known work in the Pantocrator style. The painted panel measures 84 cm high, 45.5 cm wide, and 1.2 cm deep. The painting is thought to have originally been larger.
Christ is shown raising his left hand in a blessing gesture, while holding a book in his right. The painting is deliberately asymmetrical to symbolize Christ’s dual nature. Christ’s left side is symbolic of his human nature, with his features depicted as much softer and lighter. Whereas Christ’s right side is symbolic of his divinity with his stern look and intense features,. The eyes themselves are different in shape and size, and the hair on his left side is swept behind his shoulder.

I made this icon to order. It was really exciting for me to use the old technique of encaustics. The dimensions are 85 х 45 х 3 см which is approx. 33.46×17.71×1.18 inches. I use only clear bee wax and natural pigments; the wooden panel is made of natural wood, specially crafted by my carpenter. It is covered with canavas in order to be strong.
Custom requests and orders are welcome as well!