All-Hymned Mother Icon
Vladimir Oblast, Russia (19th c.)
The Icon “O All-Hymned Mother” derives its title from the thirteenth Kontakion of the Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos: “O All-Hymned Mother who bore the Word, holiest of all the saints....”
The Mother of God wears a crown, and clasps her child to her breast with both hands. Christ is held in her left arm, and rests on her left shoulder. He is facing her, and both of His hands are placed below her neck. Instead of the usual stars on her head and shoulders, the faces of angels appear in three circles. This is similar to the Arabian Icon (September 6) and the “Stone of the Mountain not cut by Hands” Icon on the iconostasis of the cathedral of the Transfiguration at Solovki.
Text and image used with permission.
Source: "365 Days with Mary" by Michael O'Neill
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