16 icon The Fiery Ascension of Elijah the Prophet

Northern School, 16th century.

The Tretiakov Gallery, Moscow, 99.5 x 64 cm.

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The Fiery Ascension of Elijah

The Fiery Ascension of Elijah the Prophet, painted in the sixteenth century, is classified as a work of the Northern school of icon painting. The Northern School can be described as a local, provincial, and archaizing school, which is often affected by folk art. The icon depicts several moments leading to the ascension of Elijah, but in comparison to similar icons from Novgorod, it gives a unique interpretation of the Biblical story. The painting’s ornate border, vibrant colors, and carefully placed detail help to distinguish this icon from its counterparts.