An icon is written, not read, and if written within the canons of the church, is considered scripture. It does not point to itself as a thing of beauty but points to the revelation of Christ. Icons are painted on wood and 15 to 20 steps are involved in painting them, according to Mrs. Park. Everything is symbolic. Everything used to create an icon is supposed to come from natural sources.
Nothing is manmade.
For example, icons traditionally are painted with egg tempra, although modern iconographers sometimes use acrylics. The gold that glows on icons is supposed to be pure gold. It takes years to become an experienced iconographer. She became interested in icons while studying for her master's. I found myself involved in them, surrounded by them.