Icon painting is a traditional form of religious art, primarily associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church. These paintings depict sacred figures, such as Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. Iconography follows specific guidelines, emphasizing spiritual representation over realistic portrayal. The process of creating an icon involves careful preparation of materials, including wooden panels and natural pigments. Artists often use a technique called tempera, which combines pigments with a binding agent like egg yolk. Icons are not just decorative; they serve as windows to the divine, inviting prayer and contemplation.