6 January · Theophany
Icon of the Baptism of Christ, the Theophany
In the Jordan Christ receives baptism from John, the voice of the Father sounds from heaven and the Spirit descends as a dove. The Eastern tradition calls this feast Theophany, «manifestation of God», because for the first time the Trinity is openly revealed.
How to read the icon
- At the centre, Christ immersed in the waters, which flow between two rocky banks like a watery tomb: baptism is already an image of death and resurrection.
- On the left, Saint John the Baptist, bending, his hand resting on Christ's head.
- On the right, angels holding cloths, like deacons ready to dry the Lord.
- Above, the segment of heaven, the ray and the dove of the Holy Spirit.
- In the waters, sometimes, small figures personifying the Jordan and the sea, turning back (Psalm 114:3), and the axe laid at the root of the tree (Matthew 3:10).
A baptism gift
The icon of the Baptism of Christ is the most eloquent gift for a baptism: it recalls that the child is immersed in the same water sanctified by the Lord. It is also given for a baptism anniversary and to those named John. On 6 January the Eastern Churches bless the waters. Like every icon by Concetta Basile, it is fully gilded with 23¾ karat gold, with inscriptions in Greek or Latin, and is commissioned with an offering proportionate to the time and materials of the work.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the Eastern Epiphany celebrate the Baptism rather than the Magi?
In the West, Epiphany mainly recalls the visit of the Magi; in the East, 6 January is the Theophany, centred on the Baptism of Christ. The Magi are celebrated together with Christmas.
How do I commission a feast icon?
In the configurator choose «Liturgical feast» and enter the name of the feast; the number of figures can be changed. In the conversation with Concetta Basile you agree together on composition, size and inscriptions.