Description
Our Lady of Vladimir and the Eleusa tradition
The historic Vladimir icon is a Byzantine image of the Mother of God from the first half of the twelfth century and one of the best-known examples of the Eleusa, or Tender Mercy, type. It was brought from Constantinople to Kyivan Rus and placed in Vladimir in the twelfth century, from which it received its familiar name; it was later taken to Moscow. The type unites royal dignity with intimate affection and has shaped countless later icons of Mary and Christ.
Cheek-to-cheek embrace of Mother and Child
This interpretation places the Child on Mary's right arm as he presses his cheek to hers and reaches around her neck. Mary supports him with one hand and raises the other toward his body. Her red mantle is richly edged and jeweled, and the Child wears a rose-colored garment. Gold halos, Greek sacred abbreviations, and the luminous field identify the figures. The close embrace expresses love while Mary's grave gaze directs contemplation toward Christ's saving mission.
For families, tenderness, and faithful love
The icon is suited to family prayer, intercession for parents and children, reconciliation, and reflection on love that remains faithful through sacrifice. It can be placed in a home icon corner, nursery, parish family room, counseling office, chapel, or retreat house. It is also a thoughtful gift for baptism, marriage, adoption, Mother's Day, or an anniversary. Veneration is directed through the image to the holy persons represented and does not treat the panel as a talisman.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, with direct printing and decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included.