Icon - Christ Pantocrator - Wood

Christ Pantocrator, one of the most important representations in Eastern Christian iconography and the Orthodox tradition.

Christ is depicted facing forward, in a hieratic half-length, looking directly at the viewer.
- Face: presents a solemn, serene, and majestic expression, with a beard and long hair, following the traditional iconography of Christ.
- Halo: a circular golden halo surrounds his head, a symbol of his divinity. The remains of the cross inscribed in the halo can be discerned.
- Right hand: raised in a blessing gesture.
- Left hand: holds the open Gospel, symbol of his role as Teacher and Word of God.
- Robes: he wears a reddish tunic and a dark mantle, in accordance with the traditional representation of the Pantocrator.
- Inscriptions: in the upper corners the Greek letters IC XC are distinguished, abbreviation of Iesous Christos (Jesus Christ).
Meaning
The Pantocrator means “All-Powerful” or “Lord of all things.” It represents Christ as sovereign of the universe, judge, savior, and teacher of humanity.

The open Gospel recalls his teaching and the divine word addressed to men.
Artistic characteristics and conservation
The panel presents a warm tonality, with predominance of ochers, browns and reds.