Virgin Mary of Vladimir (Vladimirskaya)

Orthodox Russian icon of Theotokos of Vladimir on thick plywood 20mm, which does not sting and keeps its shape over time. Preparation with acrylic stucco and have been used acrylic colors. It has been covered with varnish to keep the colors undiluted in time and humidity. Hanging clip included on the back of the icon. 

This Orthodox Icon of Our Lady is a medieval Byzantine icon of the Virgin and Child. In 1169 Yury Dolgorukiy sacked the city of Kiev, and after plundering the city, stealing much religious artwork, including the Byzantine "Mother of God" icon which was transferred to Vladimir. It is one of the most venerated Orthodox icons and a fine and early example of the iconography of the Eleusa (tenderness, mercy) type. The Theotokos (Greek for Virgin Mary, literally meaning "Birth-Giver of God") is regarded as the holy protectress of Russia. The icon is displayed in the Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow in a former church in the grounds of the museum. Her feast day is June 23rd according to the Julian calendar and July 6 according to the Gregorian calendar. Even more than most famous Christian Orthodox icons, the original has been copied repeatedly for centuries, and many copies have considerable artistic and religious significance of their own. The icon is a version of the Eleusa (tenderness) type, with the Christ child snuggling up to his mother's cheek.