This traditionally painted icon depicts St. Nicholas: the Wonder Worker and the patron Saint of Russia. He is remembered for his affection for the poor, especially children. Beloved the world over for his kind deeds and gentle spirit, St. Nicholas was the basis for Santa Claus. During his life he performed many miracles, including multiplying food to save a village from starvation, and calming the seas to prevent a shipwreck. In death, his remains are said to exude oil and myrrh, as are many icons and statues in his image.

Although it is best known today for its lacquer miniatures depicting scenes from fairy tales and folk traditions, Palekh was once an important center of icon painting. After the Russian Revolution, religion was outlawed and icon painting essentially forbidden. The bold colors, metallic accents, and stylized figures of icons soon found a new application in secular themes, and the distinctive style of Palekh lacquer art was born. After the fall of the Soviet government, a number of Palekh artists have returned to their roots, creating dazzling icons in the tradition of their ancestors. This work, painted on a wooden panel with a matte finish, is a beautiful example of the rebirth of icon painting in Russia.