The portraiture of the Georgian nobility created in Tbilisi during the first half of the nineteenth century—known as the Tiflis Portraiture School—represents a landmark phenomenon in the history of Georgian art. The finest works produced within this creative circle stand out for their individuality and exceptional artistic quality, while also conveying a pronounced sense of national identity. It is noteworthy that the emergence of the Tiflis Portraiture School coincided with the broader development of modern Georgian art and the rise of easel painting in the country.

The name Apollon as perhaps symbolic, since he went on to commit his life to art and to contribute significantly to the development of contemporary Georgian fine art. His artistic legacy has been extensively acknowledged, appreciated, and honored with several titles and honorary orders

Ambrosius (secular name: Besarion) Khelaia came from a family of priests and missionaries. His father, Zosime Khelaia, and his grandfather, David Khelaia, were active missionaries in Abkhazia. Ambrosius’ father served at one of the most revered shrines of western Georgia, the Church of St. George in Ilori. In the Georgian imagination, Ilori has been shrouded in a mystical veil since ancient times.