Saint Niketas the New Martyr of Nisyros

Orthodox icon of Saint Niketas the New Martyr of Nisyros on thick plywood 20mm, which does not sting and keeps its shape over time. Preparation with acrylic stucco and have been used acrylic colors. It has been covered with varnish to keep the colors undiluted in time and humidity. Hanging clip included on the back of the icon. 

St. Niketas was born in 1716 from rich parents. His father was the governor of the island, however, he fell into trouble with the Turks, and to escape tortures, he and his family converted to Islam and moved to Rhodes. There, his youngest son, Mehmet, learned that at one time he had been a Christian named Niketas. Immediately after, at 14 years of age, Niketas went to Nea Moni of Chios where he confessed his situation to the Abbot. The Abbot sent him first to the former Bishop of Thebes Makarios, who gave him Holy Chrism and valuable guidance. When he reached Chios, he was compelled by the Turks to pay the head tax, which he was unable to do. Therefore the Turkish employee led him towards the prison at Vounaki. On the road he met some priest who greeted Niketas as Mehmet. When the Turk heard this and learned from someone what had happened he led him to the Aga. There Niketas confessed his faith with boldness and withstood the pressures and threats to return to their religion. Because however he did not give way, they delivered him to terrible tortures for ten days. In the end, he was beheaded on June 21st (his feast day) 1732 at 17 years of age, gaining the crown of martyrdom and heavenly glory.