In the XL version, this powerful depiction of Christ's Holy Face is almost life-size, and the distinction between the left (consoling) and right (chastising) eyes is quite apparent. The icon is amazing precisely because the two very different gazes are combined seamlessly in one face, and at some points the distinction is unnoticeable, and melts into a gaze that calms as well as upbraids. "The Lord chastises those whom he loves", is what it reminds me of.
I truly believe that the "soft and cuddly" depictions of Jesus Christ, as in the case of the "Sacred Heart" paintings where Christ is made to look androgynous, do great harm to young people's image of who Christ is. I speak from experience, because as a young man I wanted a powerful God, and the way I saw Christ depicted in Roman Catholic churches left me wanting.
This icon is the CURE for the false "happy", "feel-good" version "friendly Jesus" that so many people are given today. Christ is a God of Power and Might, and this is the icon which proves to me that ancient Christians understood this well.
In terms of quality, Uncut Mountain Supply deserves seven stars for perfection. The colors are rich, the image is impeccable.
I will be buying from this site again, and I give many thanks for the work.
