St John the Baptist Icon

This hand-painted Orthodox icon presents Saint John the Baptist, the Forerunner of Christ, in a traditional Byzantine-inspired composition. He is depicted with his characteristic long hair and beard, wearing a garment of animal hair beneath a green outer robe. His right hand is raised in blessing, while his left hand holds a staff crowned with a cross and a scroll bearing his prophetic message. Crafted by hand using egg tempera on a thick natural plywood panel, the icon is enriched with 24K genuine gold leaf and carefully developed gilding. The polished gold surface and decorated halo create a luminous background that emphasizes the sacred character of the image. Protective varnish provides a durable finished surface, and the icon ships in a protective box.

Iconography and Symbolism

Saint John the Baptist, also known as Saint John the Forerunner, is the prophet who prepared the way for the coming of Christ. His appearance in the wilderness, simple clothing, and ascetic expression reflect his life of repentance, prayer, and spiritual discipline. The raised right hand represents blessing and proclamation, while the cross-bearing staff identifies John as the Forerunner who announced the coming of Christ. The scroll represents his prophetic preaching and his call to repentance. His wilderness garments recall his ascetic life and his complete dedication to his prophetic mission.

Feast Day

January 7 — Synaxis of Saint John the Baptist

Gift Suggestions

-Orthodox Christians named John or related names
-Baptisms and christenings
-Ordinations or spiritual milestones
-Home prayer corners and personal devotion