Resurrection Icon – Anastasis Harrowing of Hades

This is a silkscreen reproduction with gold leaf and hand-painted details, crafted according to tradition. It depicts the Resurrection of Christ in the Orthodox iconographic form known as the Anastasis or Harrowing of Hades. Unlike Western art which shows Christ rising from the tomb, the Orthodox icon portrays Him descending into Hades, breaking the gates of death, and raising Adam and Eve by the hand as the first-born of the dead.

Christ is shown radiant, clothed in white or gold, standing on the shattered gates of Hades. Around Him are Old Testament prophets and righteous ones, including David, Solomon, and John the Baptist, who bear witness to His triumph. His halo is inscribed with the cross and the Greek letters Ω Ο Ν (Omega, Omicron, Nu), meaning “He Who Is,” affirming His divinity. The abbreviation IC XC appears beside Him, meaning “Jesus Christ.”

The Resurrection – Anastasis icon is central to the Orthodox faith and is celebrated with great joy during Pascha (Easter Sunday), the Feast of Feasts.

The icon of the Resurrection (Anastasis, Harrowing of Hades) is a powerful gift for Easter, baptisms, name days, and new homes, symbolizing eternal life, renewal, and Christ’s victory over death. It is especially suitable for prayer corners as the central Paschal icon.