Virgin of the Gorgoepikoos – Lithograph – Mount Athos

Description

Lithograph of the Virgin of the Gorgoepikoos

One of the many titles attributed to the Theotokos is the Virgin of the Gorgoepikoos. As is well-known, the miraculous icon of the Virgin of the Gorgoepikoos has been housed in the Monastery of Dochiariou on Mount Athos since 1646. In fact, it received this specific name after a miracle. According to tradition, one of the monks was passing by the icon of the Virgin with lit torches, darkening it, until a voice was heard asking him to stop.

The monk paid no attention and continued, resulting in him losing his light shortly after. He then realized that the voice he had heard was that of the Virgin, and he begged her to have mercy on him. The Theotokos, as a compassionate mother, heard his prayer and granted him light, saying: “I am the Lady of this Monastery, and I quickly obey those who call upon me, granting them the requests for their salvation.”

Lithograph: Characteristics

Using a lithographed copy of Byzantine art, the iconographer monk created this particular work following the traditional method of artificial aging, as taught to him on Mount Athos. The handmade artificial aging of the icon gives the representation of the Virgin of the Gorgoepikoos collectible value. The lithographic technique in iconography is a printing technique invented in 1798.

Origin: Mount Athos