In the mid-17th century, the Russian Orthodox Church was led by Patriarch Nikon. Public domainIn Summer 1654, Nikon ordered that all icons painted in such a “heretical” style be confiscated from the people. Heralds shouted out a decree, warning that anyone who painted such icons or kept them would face punishment. He intervened and ordered that these icons not be burned, but, rather, buried in the ground, as was customary with worn-out icons beyond repair. Patriarch Nikon in New Jerusalem.