HOLY MANDYLION

Description According to tradition, the “Holy Mandylion” or “Non-Handmade Image” was the first cloth printed image of Jesus, which was sent while He was still on earth to Avgarus V, Prince of Osrhoene of the kingdom of Edessa. Although Avgarus had not seen Jesus, he had believed in Him as the Son of God. When struck by leprosy, he sent a letter to Jesus, asking him to visit him in his city and heal him. The letter was to be delivered by Ananias, Avgarus' personal painter. When Ananias reached the place where Jesus was teaching, he could not approach him so he tried unsuccessfully to paint His portrait from afar. When Jesus finished preaching, Ananias came closer and gave Him the letter of Avgarus. Jesus then asked for water and a cloth and imprinted His face on it. The cloth was sent to Avgarus, who touched it and was healed. The cloth was then placed as an icon from Avgarus V on the entrance of the city.

Silver plated icon, locally gilded.