Icon of the Mystical Supper

ICON OF THE MYSTICAL SUPPER

How our icons are made

The icon of the Mystical Supper depicts our Lord Jesus Christ with the twelve disciples at the 'Upper Room', at their last meal together, when the Holy Mystery of the Holy Eucharist was instituted. This icon would grace the dining room of any Christian home.

Christ is seated in the center of the table. He holds a scroll in His left hand signifying the Word of God, while his right hand is raised in blessing. His himation (cloak) is dark blue symbolizing His Divinity; while the red color of his tunic (inner garment) is symbolic of his humanity and the blood he shed for mankind.

Christ is the only figure depicted with a halo, as the other Apostles had not yet received the Holy Spirit.

Not all of the figures can be identified with specific apostles, even by iconographers. Yet, some are identifiable: On Christ's left leaning close to Him is St. John, "Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved". – John 13:23. On the right is the Apostle St. Peter. Just behind St. John is St. Peter's brother St. Andrew, the one who is depicted with curly hair and beard. Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Christ, is seen leaning forward to dip his piece of bread. Sts. Thomas & Philip are the two young, beardless men.