Description

Wood-Carved Icon of the Theotokos Athonitissa

Standing tall and majestic, the Theotokos Athonitissa stands protectively over Mount Athos. She is the Mother of God who, holding the abbot’s staff, leads, protects, and guides the monks of the Athonite State. Beneath her, all the monasteries of Mount Athos, the shores, and the nature adorning the third peninsula of Halkidiki can be seen. Behind her is the sky that envelops Athos. To her right and left are depicted some of the countless saints of Mount Athos.

Throughout history, people have praised and honored the Virgin Mary like no other human being. Ecumenical Councils, great Fathers, ascetics, hymnographers, and poets speak of her, hymn her. “For she is higher than any measure of praise,” says Saint John of Damascus. There is no service in the Church where the Virgin is not mentioned, not praised, and not glorified as the principal intercessor between God and mankind.

At Mount Athos, all services are conducted with great devotion. Matins, Vespers, Hours, Compline, Midnight Office, and Divine Liturgies. The Virgin occupies a supreme place, second only to the Holy Trinity. The Akathist Hymn, the Paraklesis, and other canons inspired by her image speak of her and refer to her.

The icon of the Theotokos Athonitissa on canvas, set on wood, which is carefully crafted by the monks, is an exceptional example of their tireless work for the glory of God.

The icon is available upon order.

Dimensions: 53.5 x 20 x 2 cm

Origin: Mount Athos