0125 Christ The Ruler of The World

Russian.
19th cent.  33.5x29x2.5 cms.

“Pantocrator” is Greek for “Ruler of All”. There are two variants. The first shows Christ holding a Bible in His left hand whilst giving benediction with His right.  This icon is an example of the alternate. It shows Christ in a more regal role. Here His right hand is again raised in a blessing but His left holds a crystal orb. It is a symbol not only of majesty and kingship but also His ability to see into the soul of mankind. His authority is further enhanced by a fixed judgemental gaze as well as His dress which is more sumptuous than the more traditional image.