5159 | Antique 17th century, Orthodox Russian icon: Mother of God Hodegetria 17th century

Late 17th. century, Moscow, Mother of God Hodegetria. Egg tempera on gesso and gold leaf. Two splints on the back (both missing), double covcheg.

A Hodegetria, or Virgin Hodegetria, is an iconographic depiction of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary) holding the Child Jesus at her side while pointing to him as the source of salvation for humankind. The Virgin's head usually inclines towards the child, who raises his hand in a blessing gesture.

14” x 12” (35 1/2 x 30 cm)