The Russian icon as a phenomenon was discovered only in the early 20th century when restorers learned to remove centuries-old grime and candle soot from the surface.



Before that the icon had been considered ancient gloomy art, but this all changed when the bright and shining paintings managed to break free from the dark layers of old dirt, grime and varnish.



The golden background of icons is a symbol of the spiritual world and divine radiance. It conveys the magnificence of the Heavenly Kingdom where there is no night.



That is why the folds and parts of the garments of Christ, the Virgin Mary and the saints were painted with gold. Sometimes the gold color was replaced with yellow paint, but the meaning remained the same.



Above: Archangel Michael, late 13th century

Left : Saint George, the main icon of Yuriev Monastery in Novgorod, 11-12th century.



