What Are Catholic Icons?
Catholic icons are religious images that are used in the Catholic Church as a form of veneration and prayer. Icons are seen as a representation of Jesus, Mary, and the saints, and they may also depict scenes from the Bible. They are often found in churches, chapels, and other places of worship, as well as in homes. The Art of the Icon is a Catholic gift shop online that produces authentic Catholic icons made in the same tradition as they were hundreds of years ago. Learn more about Catholic icons, and shop online today!
The Essence of a Catholic Icon
The word “icon” comes from the Greek word eikon, meaning “image.” Traditionally, Catholic icons are created as wooden panels with painting or mosaics, although today they may also be made from other materials such as metal, stone, or even glass. Icons are often framed with a gold or silver background, and may feature a depiction of Jesus, Mary, saints, or angels.
The History of Catholic Icons
Catholic icons have been used in the Catholic Church since the 4th century, and the earliest examples were believed to have been painted by St. Luke himself. Traditionally, icons were created with great care and attention to detail, as they were meant to be devotionals, as well as works of art. The Catholic artwork was often symbolic, with the colors and images chosen to convey a message or teach a moral lesson.
What Catholic Icons Mean Today
Icons are often objects of veneration, and many Catholics will bow or kneel in front of an icon in prayer. The Church encourages Catholics to pray before icons and venerate them as reminders of the saints and of Jesus. Icons are also sometimes used as focal points for meditation, as Catholics may focus on the image and its message to bring peace and serenity.
The Importance of Catholic Icons
Icons have had a long and significant role in the Catholic Church, and they have evolved over time to become a part of the religious culture. From depictions of the holy family to the saints and angels, icons are a visual representation of the Catholic faith. They are a reminder of God’s presence and a visual aid to prayer and meditation.
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The Art of the Icon faithfully adheres to the rules of icon creation. We only use the purest materials to bring you authentic Catholic icons. Each of our Catholic icons comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring you are getting the best of the best. They are made by experienced iconographers in Greece, and with the proper care, can last a lifetime. Shop all of our Catholic icons today!
