Tsar of Tsars

This icon (late 16th c.) depicts Christ as the supreme ruler, dressed in imperial robes, holding a scepter and orb, and giving a blessing. It embodies the Third Rome ideology, asserting the tsar’s divine right and reinforcing sacred monarchy. Located in the tsars’ private chapel, it played a key role in Russia’s religious-political narrative, emphasizing the divine nature of royal authority and Russia's messianic role.