Saint Stephen Icon – The Gilded Blessing of the First Martyr - (41 x 33 cm)

The First Martyr and Patron

• Saint Stephen is the embodiment of fiery oratory and unwavering sacrifice. His significance in the home is a reminder of the power of truth that transcends the fear of physical demise.
• Historical Feat: Stephen was the first Christian to publicly and logically defend the faith before the Sanhedrin, recounting the history of salvation before falling victim to collective wrath.

• Message to the Household: He teaches us forgiveness and mercy. His prayer for those who persecuted him became the foundation of the Christian attitude toward the world—"Lord, do not hold this sin against them."

Craftsmanship & Materials

• Premium Gold Finish: This icon features refined relief work with gold tones, highlighting the deacon's vestments (sticharion) and the censer that Saint Stephen often carries.

• Canonical Accuracy: The artistry strictly follows Orthodox iconography, depicting the Saint as a young, beardless man filled with the Holy Spirit, radiating gentleness and resolve.

• Diaspora Heritage: Handcrafted by Serbian artists, it serves as a powerful link to spiritual roots for families in the USA, Canada, and Australia.

• Durable Wood: The use of premium solid wood and protective coatings ensures this icon remains a vibrant centerpiece of the home for generations.

For more detailed information about Orthodox icons and how they are made, you can read more in our blog.

Saint Stephen

Saint Stephen lived and suffered in Jerusalem around 34 AD, shortly after Christ's Ascension. A fascinating historical fact is that Stephen was a highly educated Hellenist whose mastery of the Old Testament so outshone his opponents that they could not combat him with words and resorted to force. History records that his execution by stoning was overseen by a young man named Saul of Tarsus, who would later become none other than Saint Paul the Apostle. Stephen's death was a historical turning point—it marked the beginning of the great persecution of Christians in Jerusalem, which paradoxically led to the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman world.

In Serbian tradition, he is revered as the protector of the Nemanjic dynasty; every king from this lineage added the name "Stefan" to his own in honor of this Saint. The icon in your home serves as a reminder that truth and forgiveness are the most powerful weapons—it teaches us that true authority is gained by serving others, just as Stephen served the poor as a deacon, preserving the dignity and sanctity of the Christian home through the centuries.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Why is masking important with Slavic icons?

Lamination gives the icon strength, stability and contributes to the longevity of the product.

In what style are Orthodox icons made?

The icons follow the traditional Byzantine style characteristic of Orthodox art.

Are the icons gold plated?

Yes, the halo is made of 24 carat metal gilding.

Are the regular icons good quality?

Yes, the classic icons have quality processing, decorative details and a very elegant look.

International Designations

USA / Canada / UK / Australia: Saint Stephen the Archdeacon / St. Stephen the Protomartyr – Gilded Icon, Serbia / Montenegro / Bosnia: Sveti arhiđakon Stefan (Stevanjdan), Greece / Cyprus: Agios Stefanos o Protomartys (Άγιος Στέφανος ο Πρωτομάρτυρας), Russia / Ukraine / Belarus: Apostol ot 70-ti Stefan (Апостол от 70-ти Стефан), Germany / Austria: Hl. Stephanus – Der erste Märtyrer – Vergoldete Ikone, Romania: Sfântul Arhidiacon Ștefan

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