Ethiopia is one of the first nations to embrace Christianity and has had a Christian majority since the 4th century. Ethiopia is one of the oldest nations on earth with much evidence pointing to the beginnings of Homo Sapiens. With such a long history it follows that expressions of the faith would develop into art or icons.

Ethiopian icon stands generally tend to be hand carved and painted depictions of various Bible verses. Typically displayed open and horizontally in the same manner an exceptionally large version of the dictionary, atlas or Bible is showcased on a stand in many libraries. Traditionally those who obtain these treasures rarely keep them but give them away putting into practice words from the gospel, “It Is More Blessed To Give Than Receive”.

The artists who produce these artifacts today have had the benefit of ancestors who consistently and dare I say religiously passed the techniques down through the centuries.

Finding these icons is not as difficult as one might think, thanks in part to the internet, one is able to view works online and contact the artist, iconographer or seller via phone or email. Also any area which has a large population
of Ethiopians is certain to have a church, so you will have this as an option too.