Description

The presence of the guardian angel on an icon, together with another saint, is an indication that the icon was painted on commission. The patron, or the one for whom the icon is produced, is represented by the saint standing next to or opposite the guardian angel. In this case, it is Saint Alexei. It is most likely that the owner of the icon was also called Alexej. The guardian angel is always dressed in white, in the clothing of servants at the Byzantine court. He carries a sword and a cross staff to protect the soul to whom he is attached from evil.