Panagia Queen of Heavens – Lithograph – Mount Athos

Description

Lithograph of the Virgin Mary, Queen of the Heavens (Platytera)

A lithograph of the Virgin Mary, Platytera (Queen) of the Heavens, depicted enthroned, with two Angels on either side of her, as she lovingly embraces all people as her children. The Virgin Mary, as Platytera of the Heavens, is typically depicted in the upper part of the central apse (Sanctuary) of Orthodox Church altars. The Virgin is sometimes shown seated on a throne holding Jesus Christ in her arms, and at other times in a standing position with her arms extended and slightly raised. The name Platytera of the Heavens comes from the characteristic verse of the Akathist Hymn, “Rejoice, O protection of the world, wider than the heavens.”

Lithograph: Characteristics

In this particular image, the iconographer monk used the technique of lithography to create a work of exceptional beauty. 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 the Athonite State. The artificial aging of the icon is handmade, a process in which the monks of Mount Athos place great importance.

Origin: Mount Athos