St Nicholas and St Anthony Icon 5" x 4"

This icon presents two towering figures of early Christianity: Saint Nicholas of Myra and Saint Anthony the Great. Their pairing in Orthodox iconography brings together the pastoral and the ascetical, the charitable bishop and the desert father—two paths of holiness that have shaped the life of the Church.

On the left stands Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, known throughout the Christian world as Nicholas the Wonderworker. His life was marked by acts of mercy, defense of the oppressed, and steadfastness in the faith during the time of the Arian controversy. He participated in the First Ecumenical Council at Nicaea in 325 AD, where he defended the full divinity of Christ. In icons, he is often shown wearing a bishop's omophorion and holding the Gospel, representing his role as teacher and guardian of the faith. Sometimes, as in this image, he holds an icon—perhaps of Christ or the Theotokos—emphasizing his deep veneration for the Incarnation and the Mother of God.

On the right is Saint Anthony the Great, also from the 4th century, often called the Father of Monasticism. Born in Egypt, Anthony gave up a life of wealth to live in solitude and spiritual struggle in the desert. His example drew many disciples, and though he did not establish a monastery in the formal sense, his way of life became a pattern for future monastic communities. Anthony is remembered for his fierce spiritual battles, his teachings on humility, and his unwavering faith. In icons, he appears as an elderly hermit with a long beard and a scroll inscribed with words of wisdom—reminders of his role as a spiritual father and teacher. His garments are simple, but the cross-tied cords and hood speak to his renunciation of the world.

The icon captures not only their personal holiness but also their enduring spiritual legacy. Together, Saint Nicholas and Saint Anthony represent the fullness of the Church: active charity and contemplative prayer, ecclesial leadership and personal asceticism, both animated by deep love for God and neighbor.

Pre-owned icons usually have minor defects like worn spots, abrasions, nicks or indentations, and sometimes there is writing on the back. If an individual icon has more than that, it will be noted in description below., 

Print on red painted wood, gloss finish.

5 7/8" x 4 1/4" x 1/2"