The Protection of Our Lady Filigree Icon: A Symbol of Divine Shelter and Intercession
The Protection of Our Lady Filigree Icon is a deeply revered image within the Orthodox Christian tradition, embodying the Mother of God’s compassionate care and protection over the faithful. This icon, distinguished by its exquisite filigree craftsmanship, represents a significant moment in Christian history and theology, making it a profound addition to any collection or place of worship.
The icon depicts the Virgin Mary in the center, extending her omophorion (a ceremonial cloak) over the faithful as a symbol of her protective mantle. This scene is inspired by a 10th-century event witnessed by Saint Andrew the Fool for Christ and his disciple, Saint Epiphanius, in the Church of Blachernae in Constantinople. They saw the Mother of God, surrounded by saints and angels, praying for the world and spreading her veil as a protection over the people. This miraculous vision led to the establishment of the feast of the Protection (Pokrov) of the Mother of God, celebrated in the Orthodox Church.
The use of filigree in this icon adds a layer of symbolic depth and artistic beauty. Filigree, a delicate kind of jewellery metalwork, usually of gold and silver, made with tiny beads or twisted threads, or both in combination, soldered together or to the surface of an object of the same metal and arranged in artistic motifs. It not only enhances the icon’s visual appeal but also signifies the intricate and tender care of the Virgin Mary for her children on earth. The metal threads, woven into elaborate patterns, mirror the interconnectedness of the divine with the human, highlighting the Virgin’s role as a mediator between God and mankind.
Venerating the Protection of Our Lady Filigree Icon invites believers to reflect on the Virgin Mary’s role in their lives as a guardian and intercessor. It serves as a reminder of her unceasing prayers for the world and her readiness to offer shelter and guidance to those who seek her aid. This icon is not just an object of devotion but also a masterpiece that connects the faithful with the rich traditions of Orthodox iconography and the enduring promise of divine protection.
In summary, the Protection of Our Lady Filigree Icon is a spiritual treasure that transcends mere artistic value. It stands as a testament to the love and care of the Virgin Mary for all humanity, offering solace and inspiration to those who venerate it.
In the icon painting workshop “Mstyora Icons,” you can purchase an orthodox filigree icon of the Protection of the Mother of God, which is executed in the best traditions of Russian iconography. The handpainted orthodox icon of the Protection of the Mother of God from the scan is not only an expression of spiritual elevation and faith but also a true work of art that will become a refined decoration for your iconostasis.
All stages of the icon’s creation, from the icon board to the tempera writing, are carried out by professional masters and icon painters with many years of experience and tenure. The clients of the icon painting workshop are Orthodox Churches and Monasteries.
All icons from the “Mstyora Icons” workshop are executed in strict adherence to the iconographic canon of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Order the Protection of Our Lady Filigree Icon at the icon painting workshop “Mstyora Icons,” located in Mstera, Vladimir region, where icons have been painted since 1628.
It is possible to commission an image in any size.
Here you can order measured icons, analogion icons, church icons, and icons for the iconostasis.
