Saint Venerable Joseph of Optina. Wooden orthodox icon.
Saint Joseph of Optina (born Ivan Litovkin) was born on November 2, 1837, into a peasant family. Orphaned at 11, he endured hardship, working in taverns and shops, facing hunger and harsh treatment. Despite this, his heart remained pure.
Initially, he did not consider monastic life, but upon his sister’s advice, he sought guidance from Elder Ambrose of Optina, who told him to stay. Thus, on March 1, 1861, his monastic journey began. He excelled in obedience, humility, and labor, eventually becoming Elder Ambrose’s cell attendant.
Despite trials in the monastery, he embraced ascetic life. In 1872, he was tonsured as Joseph, later ordained a hierodeacon (1877) and hieromonk (1884). Elder Ambrose entrusted him with guiding visitors, and many noticed his responses mirrored those of the elder himself.
In 1888, he fell gravely ill but was miraculously healed after taking the great schema. When Elder Ambrose passed in 1891, Joseph became skete superior and confessor for both Optina Monastery and the Shamordino Convent. Despite frail health, he upheld strict asceticism and was known for his spiritual gifts, clairvoyance, and healings.
After years of labor and illness, Saint Joseph of Optina peacefully reposed on May 9/22, 1911. At his burial, his hand remained soft and warm, as if alive.
The icon is made by printing on a wooden board. Paints are mineral, do not fade with time. The thickness of the board is 2 cm. The board is covered with primer by hand. The image is covered with wax. Each icon has a metal mount on the back side so that you can hang the icon on the wall. The icon has no recess, the surface is smooth.
You can buy the icon in three sizes:
- 13 х 9 centimeters (5,1 x 3,5 inches)
- 19 х 13 centimeters (7,5 x 5,1 inches)
- 26 х 18 centimeters (10,2 x 7,1 inches)
Our icons are made by Orthodox craftsmen. You can read more about the technology here.
We hope it will be a good gift for you and your loved ones.
