Saint Elias's Fiery Ascension 1570 - 1629

"Saint Elias's Fiery Ascension" is an anonymous Russian icon depicting the biblical story of the prophet Elijah being taken up to Heaven in a fiery chariot. Created between 1570 and 1629, this icon is characteristic of the detailed and symbolic style of Russian icon painting. The scene unfolds against a backdrop of mountains and fire, with Elijah's ascension depicted in the upper portion of the icon, and a group of figures witnessing the event in the lower portion. This icon, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, is an important example of Russian religious art and provides insight into the cultural and religious beliefs of its time.