The Most Holy Theotokos (Panagia Kecharitomene) – Antiqued Lithograph with Gold Leaf – Mount Athos

Description

Antiqued Lithograph of the Most Holy Theotokos (Panagia Kecharitomene)

In the person of the Most Holy Theotokos, all virtues are gathered. The Virgin Mary is pure and full of virtue. Throughout the centuries, the virtues, gifts, and countless miracles of the Theotokos have inspired iconographers, who create unique images of her filled with symbolism.

The title “Kecharitomene” was given to the Virgin Mary by the Archangel Gabriel during the Annunciation. “Rejoice, Kecharitomene, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women,” the Archangel said to Mary when he visited her to announce the joyful news that she would bear the Messiah to the world.

Kecharitomene means “full of God’s Grace,” “filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.” The Theotokos is “Kecharitomene” because she possessed the fullness of God’s Grace.

In the image of Panagia Kecharitomene, the Virgin Mary is depicted tenderly holding her Son in her arms. The faces of the two figures are close to each other, and the young Jesus touches His mother’s face with one hand, as all children do when held by their mothers, seeking warmth and security.

Antiqued Lithograph: Characteristics

In this particular image, the monk iconographer used the technique of lithography to create a work of unique beauty, framed with gold leaf. Specifically, using a lithographed copy of Byzantine art, the monk crafted this piece following the traditional method of artificial aging, as taught in the iconography workshops of Mount Athos. In fact, the artificial aging of the icon is handcrafted, a process to which the monks of Mount Athos give great importance.

Origin: Mount Athos