Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Feodor | 24823

Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Feodor | 24823

The Feodorovskaya icon depicts the Mother of God cradling the Christ child on her right arm, a stylistic representation influenced by the Umilenie style which emerged in Byzantium in the 11th century. In this evocative portrayal, the Virgin Mary tenderly gazes at her child, encapsulating the bond of maternal love.

A unique aspect of this icon is the visible bare leg of the Christ child, distinguishing it from other portrayals. This venerated icon is celebrated twice annually, on March 14 and August 16.

The history of the Feodorovskaya icon is deeply intertwined with Russian royalty and religious fervor. On August 16, 1239, Prince Vasily of Kostroma experienced a divine revelation with this particular depiction of the Mother of God during a hunting expedition. The icon’s name, “Feodorovskaya”, is derived from the Church of Saint Theodore Stratelates in Kostroma, where it was initially enshrined.

Significantly, on March 14, 1613, Maria Ivanovna stood before this very icon to bless her son, Mikhail Fyodorovich, signaling her approval for him to take on the mantle of the Russian throne. Today, the revered icon has found its home in the Dormition Cathedral of the Feodorovsky Monastery, located near Nizhny Novgorod (formerly known as Gorky).

Furthermore, within the magnificent Winter Palace in Petersburg, the Feodorovskaya icon holds a special place among a vast collection of icons in the cathedral and was notably cherished by several Russian tsars.

The craftsmanship of the Feodorovskaya icon is indeed a testament to the dedication and skill of its creators. The robes of both the Mother and the Christ child shimmer with intricate gold painting, adding a touch of opulence to the depiction. The halos surrounding their visages have been expertly restored, which amplifies the overall radiance and allure of this sacred masterpiece.

Source: Orthodox icon | Mother of God of Feodor | 24823 © Ikonen Mautner. Typing errors, other errors or changes reserved. For more information: “Das Synaxarion. Die Leben der Heiligen der Orthodoxen Kirche.” (http://www.prodromos-verlag.de/buecher.html) and Joachim Schäfer: Das Ökumenische Heiligenlexikon – https://www.heiligenlexikon.de