The icon ‘The Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem’ holds a special place in Christian iconography. The arrival of Jesus Christ in the city is described in detail in all four Gospels. Many icon painters tried to convey the symbolism of this event, which took place a week before the crucifixion of Christ. It was depicted as a triumphal entry since people believed that it was the last joyful day in the earthly life of the Savior.

The apostles are depicted on the left of the icon. They follow the Savior, and anxiety is visible on their faces — this is how the icon painter tried to convey the fear of Christ’s followers for His future. On the right side, there are Jerusalem citizens in festive clothing. They came to the city gates to meet the Savior with palm branches, which were considered a symbol of triumph and joy in those days.

The icon ‘The Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem’ belongs to the Moscow school of icon painting, developed in the era of strengthening the Grand Principality of Moscow.

The art of the Moscow school of icon painting in the 14th century was a synthesis of local traditions and advanced trends in Byzantine art. Its rise in the late 14th century — early 15th century was associated with the work of famous iconographers: Theophanes the Greek, Andrei Rublev, Daniel Chyorny. Their art traditions were translated into the icons and paintings of Dionisius, distinguished by precise proportions, festive colors, and balanced compositions.