King Trdat III

Christianity became part of Armenia’s cultural and spiritual heritage long before it was recognised as the state religion. According to tradition, the apostles Thaddeus and Bartholomew were already preaching in Armenia in the 1st century. The greatest role in spreading Christianity was played by Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who, according to tradition, returned to Armenia after a long exile. Under his influence King Trdat III accepted Christianity, and during his reign it became the state religion, making Armenia one of the first Christian countries in the world.

The painting shows King Trdat III at full length, wearing a jewelled crown and a red cloak with a fur edge, and holding a sceptre.