Works of Mercy

An exact replica of the original icon from the Holy Mount Athos. Made on natural wood with the use of traditional materials. Crafted with 22K gold leaves. Reproduction according to the museum print standards.

This icon is an allegorical representation of Jesus’ words:

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Matthew 25:40

Jesus is depicted as Christ who is hungry, thirsty, imprisoned, a stranger, naked, and sick. In each individual scene, a person reaches out to Him, offering water, bread, shelter, or whatever else is needed. This artistic depiction illustrates the Lord’s command: the good that each Christian performs for a needy brother is considered as done in the name of Jesus Christ and constitutes an offering to God Himself.

The Gospel passage continues:

"‘For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’"

Matthew 25:42-45

The icon reminds every Christian of the heart of the Gospel — the love for one’s neighbor and the living service to Christ through acts of mercy.