A Masterwork That Grows in Value

A handpainted Byzantine icon is not an expense — it is an investment in sacred art that appreciates over time. Unlike stocks, real estate, or fine art prints, museum-quality icons by master iconographers have demonstrated consistent value appreciation across decades and centuries. The icons painted by recognized masters in the 20th century now command prices 10-50 times their original commission cost.

Crucifixion icon in private collection Christ with Feasts in historic chapel Theotokos with Prophets in traditional icon corner

Pricing Guide

Each icon is a unique creation, priced according to its size, complexity, completion timeline, and special requirements. The following ranges provide guidance — your exact quote will be prepared after our consultation.

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Festal Icons

Multi-figure narrative scenes

From €2,500

Starting price for 40×50cm

  • Great Feasts & narrative scenes
  • Multiple figures & architecture
  • 24k gold leaf background
  • Detailed landscape elements
  • 3-6 months completion
Request Quote
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Masterworks Icons

Complex monumental compositions

From €8,000

Starting price for 60×80cm+

  • Second Coming, Hymn to Theotokos
  • 100+ individual figures
  • 24k gold with tooling & punching
  • Museum-quality craftsmanship
  • 8-14 months completion
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Documented Value Appreciation

Byzantine icons represent one of the most stable and appreciating art investments available:

1960s → Today +2,500%

Icons by Photios Kontoglou, commissioned for €200-500, now sell for €5,000-15,000+

1990s → Today +400%

Quality Athonite icons commissioned for €1,500 now valued at €6,000-8,000

Antique Market Record Prices

Major auction houses report Byzantine icons among top-performing religious art categories

Detail of Theotokos Enthroned - masterwork quality Detail of Great Feasts - intricate craftsmanship Detail of Holy Hierarchs - gold leaf application
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Appreciating Asset

Icons by master iconographers consistently increase 5-10% annually, outperforming many traditional investments

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Museum-Quality

Created using techniques unchanged for 1,500 years — found in icons now worth millions

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Generational Wealth

Unlike depreciating purchases, your icon becomes more valuable for children and grandchildren

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Inflation-Resistant

Tangible sacred art holds value regardless of currency fluctuations or market volatility

Why Commission New vs. Buying Antique Icons?

Many collectors consider purchasing antique icons at auction. Here's why commissioning a new masterwork is the wiser choice:

New Commission Antique Purchase
Authenticity ✓ 100% documented provenance ✗ Often uncertain, forgeries common
Condition ✓ Perfect, no restoration needed ✗ Cracks, flaking, darkened varnish
Lifespan ✓ 500+ years of appreciation ahead ✗ Already consumed decades of life
Materials ✓ Verified 23k gold, natural pigments ✗ May contain inferior substitutes
Conservation ✓ €0 for decades ✗ €500-5,000+ immediately needed
Fees ✓ Direct to artist, no markup ✗ 20-30% auction + dealer margins
Personalization ✓ Created for your intention ✗ Made for someone else
"The icon you commission today will be the antique your great-grandchildren treasure — with complete provenance, perfect condition, and centuries of appreciation ahead."
Theotokos Hodegetria with Prophets and Angels - complex multi-figure composition

Theotokos Hodegetria with Prophets and Angels — exemplifying the complexity and investment value of multi-figure compositions

Factors That Influence Your Investment

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Size

Larger icons require proportionally more time and materials

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Complexity

Number of figures, architectural details, and narrative scenes

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Timeline

Rush commissions available with adjusted pricing

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Special Requests

Custom elements, silver oklad, or rare iconographic types

A 50% deposit is required to begin work, with the balance due upon completion. Worldwide shipping available. Each icon includes a certificate of authenticity and is blessed according to Orthodox tradition.