The Virgin Portaïtissa – Engraved Lithograph – Mount Athos

Description

Engraved Lithograph of the Virgin Portaïtissa

The original icon of the Virgin Portaïtissa is located at the Iviron Monastery and, according to tradition, is the work of the Evangelist Luke. The title “Portaïtissa” was given due to its placement, as it is situated in the chapel of the Iviron Monastery, to the left of the main gate.

In this colored lithograph of the Virgin Portaïtissa, which is an exact replica of the original, the talented Athonite iconographer has applied artificial aging with a gold finish. Around the halo, gold color with small embossed details has been added. In the four corners, the image is embellished with gold finishing, between the carvings of the artificial aging process.

The stern expression on the Virgin Mary’s face, highlighted by her captivating gaze, inspires awe.
The icon of the Virgin Portaïtissa is crafted with the highest quality, closely following the original. It is hand-finished and coated with pure beeswax according to the criteria of the Macedonian School of Mount Athos.

The image of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of all Christians, is a blessing for every home. Regardless of how her face is depicted, iconographers ensure to include the qualities, attributes, and history of each image. The people have given the Virgin Mary countless names, or “Theotokonyms,” as they are also known. It is estimated that these names exceed 500, some derived from hymns, others from the location of a church or monastery, and others from the way they are portrayed in icons.

In this particular icon, the monk iconographer used the lithography technique to create a work of exceptional beauty. Specifically, using a lithographed copy of Byzantine art, the monk created this piece following the traditional method of artificial aging, as taught in the iconography workshops of the Athonite State. The artificial aging process is handmade, a technique to which the monks of Mount Athos attach great importance.

Dimensions: 17×25

Since the icon is handmade and the wood processing is entirely done by hand, there may be slight variations in the dimensions of each icon.

The icon is available upon request.

Origin: Mount Athos