Russian icon - The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The icon depicts the Exaltation of the Holy Cross – one the most important feasts of the Orthodox liturgical year established around the relic of the True Cross, found by Saint Helen and kept in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. In the center are Bishop Macarius and another Bishop raising the Cross with the help of two deacons. Empress Helen and her son Emperor Constantine are flanking the group. Behind them, is depicted the Basilica of the Resurrection crowned by five domes (also called the Church of the Holy Sepulchre).