Archangel Raphael is lesser known than Archangels Gabriel and Michael - he is only explicitly mentioned once in Holy Scriptures, the Book of Tobit in the Old Testament - but is no less important to humanity and our faith. While Gabriel is a messenger and Michael is a warrior, Archangel Raphael is a healer, providing healing to the earth and its inhabitants. In Hebrew, his name means "It is God Who has healed". He cares for the recovery of the sick, serves as the unseen guide for those who are traveling with important tasks and is the protector of weddings and conjugal love. It is also believed that Archangel Raphael was referenced in the Gospel of John, where the Apostle mentioned the pool called Bethesda in which an angel of the Lord descended and troubled the water, healing the first to step in - the angel, of course, being the Archangel Raphael.
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This icon is made of solid, natural limewood (Tilia) that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background is comprised of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece.
All of our icons are reproduced according to museum print standards and are authentic replicas of Holy Icons from Mount Athos and elsewhere.
Learn more about how our Holy Icons are made here.
Our most popular dimensions are pictured, to scale.
Depending on the size and theme, Holy Icons are available in both Recessed and Level styles.
RECESSED
The groove in our recessed icons adds depth to the Iconography, making the icon even more dramatic and impressive. In order to keep the relative proportions, the depth of the groove changes with the size of the Holy Icon.
LEVEL
Level icons allow the Iconography to retain its boldness even in smaller sizes. As such most of our level icons have smaller dimensions.
Backside details vary with icon size and serve to ensure that your Holy Icon will stand the test of time.
Solid wooden icons of larger dimensions are prone to bending and damaging as time passes. Fortunately, our Holy Icons are supported by two additional, horizontal wooden protective panels on the backside. These panels bolster the icon and allow it to sustain its shape, ensuring that your Holy Icon will remain in its original, pristine condition as it is passed down from generation to generation.
Icons of smaller dimensions are naturally sustainable over time, and experience less structural stress. As such, you will find that the backside of smaller Holy Icons is flat and proportional to their shape.
