In the 16th century, multi-figure compositions became widespread in icons, mural painting, and small sculpture. Such compositions illustrated entire theological treatises and reflected various concepts of the world. Their complicated multi-layer structures united the heavenly and earthly realms.

One of such complex compositions is the miniature folding icon from the collection of the Museum-Reserve which features two panels — “Praise Ye the Lord from the Heavens” and “All of Creation Rejoices in Thee”. The left panel illustrates the beginning of the psalm, “Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord from the heavens: praise Him in the heights. Praise ye Him, all His angels: praise ye Him, all His hosts. Praise ye Him, sun and moon: praise Him, all ye stars of light. Praise Him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens” (Psalm 148:1–4).

The composition of the left panel follows these lines almost word by word. It depicts Jesus Christ surrounded by stars and celestial bodies, as well as angels and saints who represent the heavenly spheres.

The bottom of the panel shows a symbolized image of the earthly world with its numerous plants, birds, and animals. This part illustrates the following lines,

On the boundary between the heavenly and earthly worlds, there are many people. All of them are praising the Lord,

The right panel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and embodies the hymn that begins with the following words, “All of Creation rejoices in Thee, O full of grace: the angels in heaven and the race of men…” In the center of the panel, there is the Virgin Mary seated on the altar with the Child Jesus and surrounded by angels.