The Eagle of St. John the Evangelist 1400

Andrei Rublev’s “The Eagle of St. John the Evangelist,” a 1400 icon depicting a dove perched on a book, is a remarkable example of Russian icon painting. Rublev, a prominent figure in the development of Russian art, used bold, stylized forms to depict the symbol of the Evangelist John, a significant figure in the Christian faith. The use of gold leaf for the background evokes a celestial quality, placing the image within a sacred context. This icon, currently housed in the Russian State Library in Moscow, is a testament to Rublev’s mastery of iconographic tradition and artistic skill.