An icon - an image of a Christian saint or a scene of Holy Scripture - is an integral part of the spiritual life of every believer. This name comes from the Greek word for "image". The icon serves as an object of religious experience, meditation, but, in addition, it is a work of art and from this side it is of interest to atheists. If you want to purchase an icon, this can be done quite simply.
Instructions
Step 1
For a believer, as well as for a collector of rarities, old, "prayed" icons are of the greatest value. Many of them require restoration, but many are perfectly preserved under the frames. The age of the icons that belong to this category can range from 4 to 6 centuries. Their cost is very high, so they are often counterfeited. In order not to be deceived, such icons must be purchased in stationary antique shops or at permanent auctions that have a good reputation in the antiques market. Of course, the presence of an expert opinion confirming the authenticity of the icon is mandatory in this case.
Step 2
Today in our country there are many icon-painting workshops, whose masters carefully revive traditional schools and technologies, use ancient techniques, original mineral paints, leaf gilding and silvering. The basis for modern icons is, like several centuries ago, lime and cypress boards that have undergone a special treatment. Such icons can be bought on the Internet and in special shops that sell them at churches. All these icons have already been consecrated.
Step 3
Recently, in connection with the revival of the religious cult, many parents want to buy a so-called “measured” icon for their newborn child, which is made only to order. It is an image of the Guardian Angel or Patron Saint of a newborn, made according to his height. This icon should accompany a person through life, protect him from troubles and temptations, strengthen faith in God. You can order it in the icon painting workshop and on the Internet, on the websites of such workshops.
Step 4
By phone indicated on the website, by e-mail or in a special form, you can order a wedding or measured icon, the image of the Savior, the Virgin or the Saints. Here it will also be possible to order the design of the icon in the form of an icon case, folding, salary, enamel finishing. Many workshops make lists of famous, revered icons, the image of which has been tested by time and the faith of many generations of Orthodox people.
