15. The execution of Saint Cyril, Metropolitan of Kazan, on November
20, 1937
Saint
Cyril is revered as one of the most prominent workers of the church, a
highly educated theologian and a wise and loving pastor. He strongly supported
Holy Patriarch Tikhon in standing against the pressure of the atheist
authorities. St. Cyril is the author of several texts describing the relation
of the church and the persecutory, secular authorities, all documents
of enormous ecclesiastical value.
This scene depicting the execution of St. Cyril, has the saint facing
the spectator in a gesture that suggests his last blessings to the entire
world. His majestic red liturgical vestments contrast sharply with the
murky green silhouettes of the executioners. The dark trio of soldiers
with rifles pointing to the saint expresses the powerless fury of infernal
forces. Though stylized for this icon, the hills in the background bear
a strong resemblance to the environs where St. Cyril was brought to death.
The hills, with their yellow and pinkish tones, bring forward the theme
of renovating nature. In a parallel tone, the radiantly clothed saint
contrasting with the gloomy personifications of evil underline the celebration
and victory of eternity over hell and death. The execution of St. Cyril
is the last scene of this icon.
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