Holy Virgin Glykophilousa – Serigraphy on Naturally Aged Wood – Mount Athos

Description

Unique Icon of the Virgin Mary Glykophilousa on Naturally Aged Wood

The Virgin Mary Glykophilousa is depicted with Her warm, almond-shaped eyes gazing into the distance, as if She is witnessing the suffering and passion that will befall Her Son. She holds Her only Son lovingly in Her arms. Her posture emphasizes Her human side, as She tilts Her head and Her face touches the face of Her beloved Son. The embrace of the two figures symbolizes the sorrow and mourning that the Virgin experienced during the Crucifixion of Her Son.

At the same time, the image reflects the Virgin Mary’s love for Her Son from Her purely human side. She is surrounded by a carved halo, just as the young Jesus She holds in Her arms. The cracks in the wood bear witness to its long and fascinating history.

The Athonite monks deeply revere the historical and spiritual significance of the place where they live. They strive to make use of everything around them for the glory of God, even worn-out materials that seem to have no further use or are old. Thus, the woods that were left unused after the renovation of old cells were repurposed thanks to the wisdom of the monks. Woods that once supported the cells or formed their doors are transformed into unique icons. In this way, they continue to live on, conveying the blessing of Mount Athos.

Through the “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 processing is done by hand, there may be slight variations in the wood, but not in the depiction.

The icon is available upon request.

Dimensions: 19 x 26.5 x 2.5 cm
Origin: Mount Athos