Icon technique

Caring for icons

The icons are made in the Byzantine manner, with all that is required. I use linden wood with cotter to which linen or cotton canvas is glued, over which several layers of primer (chalk powder and fish or rabbit glue) are applied. The primer thus obtained is polished until we obtain a glossy appearance. This is the actual support for the painting and the gold leaf. The gold leaf (22-24 karat) is applied by classical polishing methods. Regarding the color, I use the old technique which involves pure pigment and egg yolk binder. Usually, I protect the icon by applying a varnish of natural resin. If the icon is placed in a church, I put it in a box with glass. The archetype I follow are generally icons painted before the year 1400 and can be icons, frescoes, miniatures or mosaics.

The icon is transported in protective packaging, similar to the one received when you bought it. No adhesive tape or glue is used to wrap the icon. The icon is handled carefully, being very sensitive to collisions and scratches. It is recommended that the icon is hung on the wall, in a room without humidity, away from direct sunlight and any source of heat. The icon must be kept in an ordinary indoor environment, away from mechanical, chemical or thermal factors. Wipe the dusty icon with a soft cloth. If necessary, use your clean and dry hand. It is good to carry the icon only if you can not avoid it. When the consecration of the icon is done, the sprinkling must not be abundant; the icon will be wiped after a few minutes by tapping it with a soft tissue.