This engraving was originally made on June 21, 1782 by the great monk Parthenios of Elassona in the Monastery of Transfiguration. I believe that this is an original print by the cliche made in the late 18th century. It’s approved with stamps by the Monastery of Transfiguration, which is situated in the holy Mount of Athos, Greece. Parthenios was a monk in the monastery of the Transfiguration, Meteora, the highest, largest and oldest of the monasteries of the Meteora. Orthodox paper icons flourished from the 17th to late 19th century. They depict saints or religious scenes, and often include panoramic views of monasteries, and representations of the monastery’s patron saints, thaumaturgical icons and miracles connected with them. Though important in the history of graphic arts in the Balkans, relatively few of these prints have survived (the authoritative catalog by D Papastratou, first published in 1986, lists 618 items). It was only in the late 19th century, with the revival of interest in folk art, that they became collectible. This piece of Christian art represents the beauty of Athos and the village Meteora – one of the holiest and most beautiful places on Earth. It measures 20″ x 16 1/4″ with newer frame.