Description
Axion Estin icon of the Mother of God
Axion Estin means "It is truly meet," the opening words of a Marian hymn used in Orthodox worship. Church tradition connects the hymn with an event in 982 near Karyes on Mount Athos, where the expanded text was first sung before an icon of the Theotokos. The original image is honored in the Protaton church, and its feast is observed on June 11.
What the image communicates
In this rendering, the crowned Mother of God holds the Christ Child while angels attend above. Christ carries an open scroll, recalling the icon's close relationship with liturgical praise and the proclamation of the Gospel. Mary's gesture supports and presents her Son: honor given to the Theotokos is directed toward the mystery of the Incarnation and toward Christ himself.
A devotional icon for prayer
The Axion Estin icon is especially appropriate for a home prayer corner, a Marian shrine, a chapel or a parish room. It can also mark a baptism, wedding, ordination anniversary or another occasion centered on gratitude to God. The image is intended to accompany prayer and contemplation; historical accounts associated with the prototype belong to Church tradition and are not a guarantee of a particular outcome.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Art Christiana makes this icon in Poland on a carefully prepared linden wood board. The surface receives two primer coats, hand-applied metal leaf and a directly transferred image. A certificate and hanging fixture are fitted on the reverse, and the icon arrives in a protective presentation box.