John the Baptist
Size: 9 x 12 inches
Media: Egg tempera
Gold: No gold
Style: Contemporary with Russian influence
Date of creation: 2008
Original icon on board – private collection, Thurmont, MD
Prints: Available as print, reproduction (limited numbers), or giclee
Description
“St. John the Baptist.” New, original egg tempera painting by the hand of Rebecca LaChance. A limited palette was used for this icon allowing the viewer to perceive a profound harmony. The use of egg tempera produces an almost architectural element to the icon. The layers of paint build upon each other producing a texture that can be seen and felt.
As in all original icons, this icon reflects the humanity and the human hand that painted it; it contains all the brush marks and hallmarks of the painter’s style and skill.
All prints are on matte, heavy paper that allows the colors to glow. The use of the heavy paper allows the buyer to either frame the icon, or mount it on a board.
The icon story
John the Baptist is depicted wearing a camel skin. In this icon the camel skin is painted a pale shade/tone of blue. He wears his red cloak on the opposite shoulder. His hair, while wildly flying about, is even and composed of parallel lines and curves suggesting a sense of order. The use of the obvious lines in his face is meant to highlight his hard life of desert living. Yet, again, the lines are stylized and parallel. Overall, the effect presents a much cleaner appearing John than what scripture describes (Matthew 3:4, Mark 1:6).
The use of the color and lines is meant to specifically suggest the idealized or spiritual nature of the saint, not his earthly life conditions.
The value and purpose of an icon
Iconography is resurging throughout the world. More and more people are experiencing beautiful religious art as important in their daily lives and their spiritual lives. The value for icons of all styles has risen markedly in the last several years as people appreciate the beauty and the message of the icons. Any well made icon will probably increase in value over time.
An icon serves as a window into heaven and allows the viewer to contemplate how the Divine influenced, and was reflected, in the person depicted.
About the author and this icon
This icon was painted under the tutelage of the renowned Russian Iconographer, Xenia Pokrovskaya and her protégés/colleagues, Anna Pokrovskaya Gourien, and Marek Czarnecki. It was immediately evident the teachings and methods of these devout iconographers were truly masterful and produced an icon that was far more beautiful and moving than previously experienced. Thanks to their influences, I have altered how I paint icons.
Geographical distance made it impractical for me to learn from Xenia on a regular basis. I was so excited by the quality of work I had learned from Xenia that I prayed for a Master Iconographer to teach me. Indeed, within months, I was introduced to another Russian woman who was a Master Iconographer. In Russia she had been the Chief Conservator for the Bishops Synod in Moscow. I now travel 80 miles round trip every other week to study and paint with this woman. And, in one of those cosmic coincidences that makes one laugh, this teacher is the sister-in-law of Xenia!
This icon of St. John the Baptist is particularly moving to me because I feel a great sense of kinship with the saint. Contemplation of this icon leads me to a metaphoric understanding about “losing one’s head” while delivering a message.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
I strongly feel that the purchase of an icon is a spiritual decision for the buyer. It is extremely important to me that all icons arrive in pristine condition and the buyer is supremely satisfied. Thus, satisfaction is guaranteed on all icon purchases. No questions asked – just return the icon in original packing within 7 days of purchase and your money will be refunded – less shipping. You can buy with confidence!
John the Baptist print on wood (4 x 6) limited number - $15.95
John the Baptist print - $12.95
John the Baptist giclee - $55.00