The Deesis, Crete, early 17th century

showing Christ Enthroned against a gold ground, his feet resting on 'Thrones', angels depicted as circles propelled by small wings, two bright red seraphims and the diminutive symbols of the Four Evangelists appearing from behind, the interceding figures of the Mother of God and St John the Forerunner on his left and his right

The painter of the present icon is clearly familiar with both Byzantine and Italian techniques. He demonstrates his debt to the famous 16th century painter Mikhail Damaskinos with the composition and the combination of linear white highlights with the relatively naturalistic modelling of the flesh tones for the faces.