Virgin Mary Expecting – Silkscreen on Naturally Aged Wood – Mount Athos

Description

Icon of the Virgin Mary Expecting on Naturally Aged Wood

The Virgin Mary Expecting is one of the rarest iconographic themes, despite being known in Byzantine art since the 11th century. At that time, the iconographic model of the Virgin Mary Blacherne was prevalent in Byzantine iconography. In that icon, Jesus is depicted on a medallion on the Virgin’s chest to signify the Divine Word in her womb.

However, in this particular icon, the Virgin Mary is shown in a state of pregnancy, with angelic figures surrounding her protectively with red cloth. The Virgin Mary Expecting is the patron saint of childless couples and pregnant women. The Church honors this title of the Virgin on September 25th, exactly six months after the Annunciation of the Theotokos and three months before Christmas. The depiction of the Virgin Mary Expecting in an icon is rare. While the Church places great importance on motherhood as a model, it is not particularly widespread in the art of iconography.

Another unique aspect of this icon lies in the wood used, which comes from the cells of Mount Athos.

The wood, derived from the renovation work of Athonite cells, is cut using special techniques by the monks and then serves as the base for creating these unique icons. Thus, wood that once supported the cells as beams, formed the doors, or was once used as stairs, is transformed into stunning works of art, continuing to live on and carry the blessing of Mount Athos.

Through “Athonite Heritage,” these collectible icons can be found in the hands of those who long to hold a piece of the living Athonite tradition.

Since the icon is handmade and the wood is processed by hand, slight variations in the wood may exist, but not in the depiction itself.

The icon is available upon request.

Dimensions: 20 x 24.5 x 2.5 cm

Origin: Mount Athos