In 957, Princess Olga, ruler of Rus, visited the Byzantine Empire.
This event was very important in history, because Olga converted to Christianity, which later became a solid foundation for the baptism of Rus by her grandson, Prince Vladimir.
When the princess arrived in Constantinople, Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitus, struck by her beauty and intelligence, proposed marriage to Olga. The princess resorted to cunning and refused, pointing out that she was a pagan and he was a Christian. Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitus himself became Olga’s godfather. After her baptism, he again proposed marriage to Olga. Olga refused again, since a godfather cannot marry his goddaughter. The emperor understood Princess Olga’s cunning and, after showering her with gifts, sent her back to Kiev.
Thus, our ruler brought Christianity to Rus, and her visit established close ties with Constantinople and confirmed Kiev’s growing role and authority on the international stage.
Princess Olga’s journey to Constantinople, her baptism, and the gifts she received from Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitus provide an understanding of the historical and cultural value of Ukraine’s religious path.
The painting depicts the moment of Princess Olga’s baptism.
The dove of peace flying over the Church of Saint Sophia in Constantinople symbolises the strengthening of cooperation between Kyiv and Byzantium.

If you are interested in this painting and would like to purchase it, please fill out and send the feedback form on the home page. You can also purchase this painting at the online galleries linked on the home page. Dispatch from Kiev (Ukraine)

TITLE: Princess Olga — from paganism to Christianity
YEAR: 2025
ARTWORK TYPE: Original Art/One of a kind
DIMENSIONS: 60х60cm
TECHNIQUES: Oil on acrylic undercoat
RELATED THEMES: Portrait, history
SUPPORT OR SURFACE: Canvas on the canvas-stretcher
FRAMING: No
CATALOGUE N: Kovalska137