The imagery is based on Revelations 12:7-9 where a cosmic war takes place between the Archangel Michael and the devil. Michael is shown as the ‘Arch Strategist’ of the Heavenly Hosts (Greek: Archistrategos, Russian: Voyevoda) riding over the flaming abyss with the devil and the fallen cities of the world. He is arrayed as a winged warrior, riding a winged red charger, blowing a trumpet, holding the Gospel Book, and a lance. A rainbow arches over his head. In the upper border we see Christ at the holy table with the Cross and symbols of the Eucharist.

Such popular icons were painted in monastic workshops, very often pilgrimage destinations, and sold to the devout as keepsakes or as presents for loved ones.