Christ Pantocrator (Sinai)

The Christ Pantocrator of Sinai is one of the oldest surviving icons of Christ, dating to the 6th century and preserved at Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai. Christ is depicted with a solemn and authoritative expression, holding the Gospel in one hand and offering a blessing with the other. The asymmetry of His face reflects both divine judgment and mercy, emphasizing Christ as both true God and true man. The icon conveys timeless authority, compassion, and spiritual depth.

 

Egg tempera on linden wood with gilding, 50 × 70 cm. Executed according to the Byzantine tradition with an Italic stylistic interpretation, the work combines sacred gold, symbolic light, and refined tempera technique to create an image meant for contemplation and devotion.