Riza

Riza is a metal cover that is placed on top of an icon. The main function of the riza is to venerate and honor the icon, but it also protects the icon from smoke coming from candles and incense. Only the face, hands, and feet of the icon are left uncovered. The riza is often made from silver, copper or brass, and they can also be gilded and adorned with gemstones.

The history of riza dates to the 17^th century Russia, though the more decorated and detailed rizas became popular around the 18^th and 19^th century. The riza can be removed and most often the whole painted icon is under them, but some icons were actually painted after the riza was done and as such some icons only have the face, hands and feet of the holy person painted.