Unknown Artist, Moscow, Russia
, Russian, fl. first half 16th century
Title
Saints George and Demetrius of ThessalonicaDatec.1500-1550
MediumTempera on panel
Dimensions
33 x 29 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1968
Object numberNGI.1850
Label TextThis icon depicts the two most popular warrior saints who, according to legend, were third-century Roman soldiers and martyrs. They are similarly dressed as foot soldiers and follow a tradition of depicting the saints standing. They have become guardians of the faith and protectors of the military, a tradition that dates back to eleventh-century Russia. They were as frequently depicted on horseback, St George slaying a dragon and Saint Demetrius killing a soldier; both of these opponents symbolised evil.