Pagan Iconography and the Presence of God the Father in Icons

In ancient times, the depiction of God the Father in Orthodox iconography was not uncommon, despite rules against it. Icons showing an old white man with a beard representing God the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit have been found in various places, including Meteora and Athens. While these depictions may violate certain canons, the responsibility for addressing such issues typically falls on church authorities rather than individual parishioners. Icons with disputed depictions, such as those of God the Father, may exist due to historical traditions and interpretations that have evolved over time.