In our workshop we have adopted the procedure of making icons with the same materials used by the ancient craftsmen, for these have proven to last through the centuries, unlike the present, insufficiently tested materials.
The icons are made on carefully selected dry wood — oak, walnut or mahogany. The foundation is made with a Bolognan plaster, which is for this specific use, and a high-quality adhesive — rabbit glue. The painting is done with powder-paints — pigments that need to be solved in egg yolk, vinegar, linseed oil and water. The researches have proven that these paints at touch become one with the plaster; thus made, the icons keep their authenticity for centuries. The background of the icons is made of pure twenty-four carat gold. The gold shines brightly and its royal colour symbolizes the burning sky, the glory and light of the Heavenly Kingdom. In the end, the polish, with which the icon is to be coated, also needs a special attention. It shouldn’t just protect it, but it is also an important factor that gives the colours unity in tone and depth. In the monastery atelier the polish is prepared by the nuns — icon-painters from scented resin: sander and dammar. The coats smell like incense, so the person kissing the icon can feel a wonderful spiritual smell.
© Dormition Monastery
