0635 The Ascent of Elijah

Russian
Late 18th cent. 31x26x2.5 cms

Elijah’s ministry is inextricably linked to fire. In Imperial Russia because of his control of fire the prophet was regarded as a protector from it. This association is the dominating feature of the icon. It shows Elijah’s ascent to Heaven in a fiery chariot. accompanied by an angel and welcomed by God. As he does sohe throws down his cloak to his faithful acolyte Isaiah in an act transferring his ministry. In the lower half of the icon are scenes of Elijah’s life. Clockwise, they are crossing the Jordan with Isaiah, being visited by an angel in a dream and being fed by a crow.