Easter egg with the image of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

This work combines several symbolic images. On the pedestal in the form of a high wave is the image of the Resurrection of Christ ― an Easter egg. It is represented as part of a sea vessel sailing under the sign of the cross. On the sail-banners of the ship is an icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, the patron saint of all those traveling on the waves of life. The image of the egg is associated with the name of the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene, who, according to legend, presented the egg to Emperor Tiberius, announcing the news of the Savior's resurrection. Since then, the egg has become one of the symbols of the resurrection of Jesus and an image of the Easter greeting. A solemn icon-banner spreads across the surface of the egg, like a sail filled with a fair wind. The sail icon depicts Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, the patron saint and protector of sea travelers, through whose prayers storms subsided and ships were saved. The Holy Wonderworker is depicted with his right hand raised in a blessing gesture, and with his left hand holding the Gospel. The wonderworker's halo is decorated with elegant ornaments. Around the edges of the icon are inscriptions under the title St. Nicholas ― St. Nicholas. From an early age, St. Nicholas devoted his life to the service of the Church, standing at the helm of Christ's ship. Prayers are offered to him for sailors, travelers, merchants, the unjustly convicted and children. The life of St. Nicholas says that from infancy he began to show a special boldness towards the Lord. As a newborn baby, he stood on his feet in the baptismal font for three hours, unsupported by anyone, thus honoring the Holy Trinity. Since childhood, Nicholas excelled in studying the Divine Scriptures and led a strict ascetic life. As a young man, he was like an elder in matters of faith, which aroused the surprise and deep respect of his contemporaries. The saint's life was filled with miracles. In the akathist, St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is called helping "traveling on the earth and floating on the sea," "the wonders of the abyss, poured out by God," "a quiet haven for those who are overwhelmed," "a well-known storehouse for those who drown," "a kind helmsman floating in the middle of the depths," "the troubles of the sea." They pray to Him for peace, for the strengthening and purity of the Orthodox faith. On the reverse side of the Easter egg is a solemn inscription XV ― Christ is Risen! The letters, entwined with delicate ornaments, proclaim Easter joy. The base of the egg is made in the form of a small boat lifted by a wave. The ship represents the Christian life, marching under the banner of the cross. Since ancient times, this symbolism has been likened to a journey where repentance is the ship, the fear of God is the pilot, and love ― The Divine harbor. Such images also include the anchor, a symbol of Christian hope for the future resurrection, as the Apostle Paul says in the Epistle to the Hebrews (Hebrews 6:18-20). There are two anchors along the edges of the marine vessel. The pedestal of the Easter product conveys a raging sea filled with dynamics due to moving drops on the waves of the elements. The round base is decorated with carved ornaments in the form of curls and leaves. A flag with a cross rises above the icon. On the front face of the flag are the initials of the master M.V.A. ― Mikhailov Vladimir Anatolyevich.