Our Lady of the Sign Icon

Our Lady of the Sign Icon is a hand-painted Orthodox icon of the Mother of God in the ancient Oranta type. The Theotokos is shown with raised hands in prayer, while Christ Emmanuel appears in a radiant medallion before her, revealing the mystery of the Incarnation and the prayerful intercession of the Mother of God.

This iconographic type is known in the Orthodox tradition as the Sign. It presents the Mother of God as the one through whom Christ came into the world and as a constant intercessor before God for the faithful.

Iconography of Our Lady of the Sign

The composition is solemn and direct. The Mother of God faces the viewer in prayer, her hands lifted in the ancient gesture of supplication. Christ Emmanuel is shown at her breast in a circular glory, blessing and holding a scroll. The image unites maternal humility, divine presence, and the power of prayer.

The gold field, chased gilded ornament, and cold enamel details give this version a festive and elevated character while preserving the spiritual clarity of the traditional icon.

The Novgorod Tradition

The icon of the Sign is especially connected with the tradition of the miraculous protection of Novgorod in 1170. In that story, the icon was carried to the city walls during a siege, and the Mother of God was venerated as a powerful intercessor and protectress.

For this reason, the image is often chosen for prayer for protection, peace, steadfast faith, and the preservation of a home or community in difficult times.

Materials and Hand-Painted Execution

This icon is painted on a linden wood board with splines, pavoloka, chalk levkas, 23K gold leaf, egg tempera, cold enamels, and protective varnish. The gilded ornament is chased by hand, giving the surface depth and a refined liturgical appearance.

The listed size is 27×31 cm (10.6×12.2 in). Larger or custom formats can be discussed individually.

For Prayer and Devotional Use

Our Lady of the Sign is suitable for a home icon corner, chapel, parish space, or as a meaningful Orthodox gift. The icon is intended for prayer and veneration, not as a printed reproduction or mass-produced decoration.

Free international shipping is included, and payment is made after receiving the icon.

Questions and Answers

What is Our Lady of the Sign icon?

It is an Orthodox icon of the Theotokos shown in prayer, with Christ Emmanuel depicted in a medallion before her.

Why is this icon called the Sign?

The name refers to the prophetic and theological sign of the Incarnation: Christ is revealed through the Mother of God.

What is shown in this version of the icon?

The Mother of God is shown as Oranta with raised hands, and Christ Emmanuel appears in a circular glory before her.

What is the connection with Novgorod?

Orthodox tradition connects the icon of the Sign with the protection of Novgorod in 1170, when the Mother of God was venerated as intercessor and protectress.

Is this icon hand-painted?

Yes. This is a hand-painted Orthodox icon on wood, not a printed reproduction.

What materials are used for this icon?

The icon is made on a linden wood board with splines, pavoloka, chalk levkas, 23K gold leaf, egg tempera, cold enamels, and protective varnish.

Does the icon have chased gilded decoration?

Yes. The gilded ornament is chased by hand over the gold leaf surface, with cold enamel details in the decorative areas.

What is the size of this icon?

The available size is 27×31 cm (10.6×12.2 in). Larger or custom formats can be discussed individually.

Where can this icon be placed?

It is suitable for a home icon corner, prayer room, chapel, parish space, or as a meaningful Orthodox gift.

How is shipping and payment arranged?

Free international shipping is included. Payment is made after receiving the icon.