Great Feasts

Also known in the West as "Our Lady of Sorrows", this icon is based on the prophecy of Saint Simeon the God-Receiver, who said at Christ's dedication in the Temple, "A sword shall pierce through your own soul as well." This icon is celebrated on...

This icon depicts a young Christ, seated in the center, with the Theotokos and Saint Joseph standing in prayer on either side. At the top we see the Annunciation to the Theotokos, and to Saint Joseph in a dream—not a common subject in iconography...

This incredibly detailed icon of the Nativity is filled with scenes. In the upper left corner we see the Annunciation, and the Virgin Mary giving the news of the incarnation to St. Joseph, and the angel reassures Joseph about Mary's conception. In the...

This icon is used in the Russian tradition for the feast of Pentecost, and in many churches it appears above the Holy Doors. It bears two meanings.  On its surface, this icon depicts a scene from the Bible. The image of three angels grouped...

The arrival of the Magi is celebrated on Christmas Day itself (December 25) in the Eastern tradition. In the West, it is celebrated on Epiphany (January 6). From the 10th century Bamberg Psalter.

From the 10th century Bamberg Psalter.

This unique icon of the Flowery Cross depicts a Russian three-barred cross with many ornate flourishes and decorations. A version of a monastic schema cross, it also includes a spear and staff with sponge–instruments associated with the...

This unique icon of the Ascension of Christ is from the 10th century Bamberg Psalter. It is a glorious depiction from chapter 1 of the Acts of the Apostles. The anonymous iconographer represents the glory of this event of the gathered disciples and...

This unique historical icon of the Annunciation is from the 10th century Bamberg Psalter. The Archangel Gabriel was sent from God to greet the Virgin, saying, "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you! Blessed are you among women!" He told her...

This unique icon of Christ's Entry into Jerusalem is from the 10th century Bamberg Psalter. It is a beautiful depiction of the Gospel accounts of Christ's celebrated and prophesied entry into Jerusalem at the beginning of Holy Week. The anonymous...

From the 10th century Bamberg Psalter.

This unique icon of the Presentation of Christ is from the 10th century Bamberg Psalter. It is a glorious depiction from St. Luke's Gospel (2:22-40) where the Theotokos and St. Joseph the Betrothed present the 40-day old Christ in the temple in...

  This unique icon of Theophany is from the 10th century Bamberg Psalter. It is a glorious depiction of the revealing of Christ's Divinity and identity within the Trinitarian Godhead. The anonymous iconographer captures the glory and humility of...