Description
Salus Populi Romani, Protectress of the Roman People
Salus Populi Romani is the historic Marian image venerated in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. The title means "Health" or "Protection of the Roman People." Tradition associates the image with Saint Luke, while modern studies generally date it between the ninth and eleventh centuries. The feast title Our Lady of the Snows recalls the separate foundation tradition of the basilica.
A Byzantine image of intercession
Mary holds the Christ Child close while he carries a book and raises his hand in blessing. Her crossed hands both support him and draw the viewer toward him. The dark blue mantle, solemn frontal pose, and gold-colored background express royal dignity without diminishing maternal tenderness. In the Roman image, Mary's small folded cloth, or mappula, is an ancient sign of rank.
Prayer with the Church of Rome
For centuries, Romans have turned to this image in times of epidemic, civic danger, and thanksgiving. Its devotional meaning is not a promise of automatic protection, but an invitation to entrust human need to Christ through Mary's intercession. The icon is especially suited to Marian prayer, prayer for a city or community, and devotion connected with Saint Mary Major.
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.