Welcome to the
Center for Icon Studies

The Center for Icon Studies (CIS) at the Museum of Russian Icons promotes the continuing study of all aspects of sacred icons. While the main focus of the Museum is Russian icons, CIS takes a broader perspective. It is interested in the origin and development of icons from the Byzantine period to the modern era and around the globe. CIS supports research in iconology and iconography, including but not limited to conservation, art historical and comparative studies, geo-political, religious and spiritual areas.

In support of this mission, CIS publishes the on-line Journal of Icon Studies with peer-reviewed articles, book and exhibit reviews, and conference announcements. In addition, researchers have access to educational videos and publications by Museum personnel as well as a variety of tools such as a dictionary of icon terminology, a Russian-English lexicon of saints' names, and the Museum's extensive, expanding collection.