Icons are sacred images that hold deep spiritual meaning and play an important role in religious tradition and worship. Typically painted on wood using egg tempera, gold leaf, or other traditional techniques, icons depict Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, or significant biblical events. They are not simply artworks but are considered “windows to the divine,” meant to inspire prayer, contemplation, and connection to the holy.

Each detail of an icon—from the colors and gestures to the backgrounds and inscriptions—carries symbolic meaning, reflecting centuries of tradition. Gold backgrounds, for example, symbolize divine light, while stylized faces and forms emphasize the spiritual rather than the earthly. Icons are often venerated in churches, chapels, and homes, serving as focal points for devotion and faith.

Beyond their religious use, icons are also admired for their timeless artistry and craftsmanship. Collectors and art lovers value them for their historical and cultural significance, while the faithful treasure them as sacred objects of prayer and blessing.