Description
Galatian Mother of God: the Galatea Hodegetria icon
The title “Galatian” in this icon’s catalog name refers to the Galatea, or Galata, icon of the Mother of God associated with a district of Constantinople; it should not be confused with the biblical region of Galatia. Orthodox tradition records that the image was kept at Galatea and honored by a monastery that survived until the seventeenth century. Its commemoration is observed on July 4 in the Orthodox calendar.
Iconography and theological meaning
The Galatea icon belongs to the Hodegetria, or “She Who Shows the Way,” type. Mary holds the Christ Child and directs attention toward him as the incarnate Word and source of salvation. The Child blesses with one hand, while crowns and rich red garments express royal dignity. These symbols do not place Mary apart from Christ; her entire gesture is Christ-centered and teaches the viewer where to look.
For prayer and Christian devotion
This icon is appropriate for Orthodox and Eastern Catholic homes, chapels, icon corners, and communities with devotion to the Mother of God. It can accompany prayer for guidance, fidelity to Christ, protection during travel, and unity among Christians formed by the Byzantine tradition. Its less familiar title also makes it a thoughtful gift for students of iconography and Eastern Christian art.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Art Christiana makes the icon to order in Poland on a double-primed linden-wood board. The image is applied directly to the prepared surface, enhanced with decorative gold-tone schlagmetal, and protected with varnish. A certificate marked with the year of production and a hanging fixture are fitted on the reverse.