Deesis Jesus Christ with the Mother of God and John the Forerunner

Deesis Jesus Christ with the Mother of God and John the Forerunner Orthodox Icon

An image of Jesus Christ with the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist

This icon was painted in 1900 by the iconographer I.S. Chirikov.

Meaning and Symbolism

The word Deesis (from the Greek δέησις – “supplication” or “prayer”) refers to a traditional Orthodox icon composition depicting Jesus Christ enthroned, with the Virgin Mary on His right and John the Baptist on His left. Both figures stand in a posture of prayer and intercession, symbolizing their role as mediators between humanity and God.

The Deesis is a central theme in Orthodox iconography, emphasizing Christ as the Supreme Judge and Savior, who listens to the prayers of the faithful through the intercession of His most beloved saints. This composition is often part of the Deesis tier in iconostasis (church icon screens), representing the heavenly court where the righteous pray for humanity’s salvation.

Saints Depicted on the Icon

On the sides of the icon are additional holy figures, each with deep theological and spiritual significance:

• Archangel Michael – The leader of the heavenly hosts, a protector of the faithful and a warrior against evil.
• Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker – A patron of mercy, charity, and miracles, deeply venerated in Orthodox Christianity.
• Apostle John the Theologian – The beloved disciple of Christ, author of the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation.
• Saint Sergius of Radonezh – A Russian saint known for his asceticism and spiritual leadership, revered as a wonderworker.
• Apostle Peter – One of Christ’s closest disciples, symbolizing faith and the foundation of the Church.
• Apostle Paul – A great missionary and theologian, responsible for spreading Christianity to the Gentiles.

Spiritual Significance

The Deesis icon is a profound representation of prayer, mercy, and divine judgment. It reflects the Church’s teaching that, through the intercession of saints, believers can seek Christ’s mercy and forgiveness. This icon serves as a reminder of the Last Judgment, where Christ, as the Righteous Judge, will weigh the deeds of all people, yet also extend His boundless love and compassion to those who sincerely repent.

It is an essential icon in Orthodox tradition, inspiring believers to turn to prayer, humility, and a deeper connection with Christ.

🖼 Product Features

• Crafted on a premium wood icon panel
• Rich mineral pigment colors designed to last
• Protected with natural beeswax finish
• Ready to hang — metal hook included
• Hand-finished by Orthodox Christian artisans
• Solid yet lightweight panel, 1.6 cm thick

📏 Available Sizes

• Small – 12 x 15 cm (5” x 6”)
• Medium – 23 x 30 cm (9” x 12”)
• Large – 30 x 39 cm (12” x 15”)

🎁 Perfect For

• Meaningful Orthodox Christian gifts
• Housewarming and family blessings
• Prayer corners and devotional spaces
• Baptisms, name days, weddings, and feast days

🌍 Worldwide Delivery

Securely packed and shipped worldwide from Portugal with tracking.

✨ Crafted with Tradition

Each icon is carefully made by Orthodox Christian artisans in Portugal — created to become a lasting blessing for your home or a treasured gift for someone you love.