Orthodox icon | Mother of God of the “Three Joys” | 24752

Orthodox icon | Mother of God of the “Three Joys” | 24752.

The icon features the divine child cradled in the lap of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Adjacent to the divine pair, on the right-hand side, is Joseph, Mary’s betrothed, while a young John the Baptist graces the left. Both figures gaze affectionately at the Holy Infant. This icon, known as the “Three Joys,” is venerated annually on December 26th.

This particular icon draws its inspiration from the renowned painting “Madonna della Sedia” crafted by Raphael in 1513/14, currently housed in the Palazzo Pitti in Florence.

A Russian priest, in the early 18th century, procured a reproduction of this icon and introduced it to his church in Russia. He incorporated Saint Joseph into the image. This iteration found a home in Moscow’s Trinity Church, known colloquially as “Tscho na grjasjach” or “the church in the mud.”

A devout woman, facing three significant challenges, found solace in this icon, praying for solutions. Her prayers found answers, resolving her troubles, and leading to the icon receiving its name henceforth.

However, in 1926, when the church razed, the icon mysteriously disappeared. Upon reconstructing the church, the cherished icon resurfaced, regaining its revered status among the faithful in Moscow.

The icon boasts an intricately designed metal Oklad or Riza, which experts meticulously cleaned. This magnificent artifact’s combination of history, artistry, and spiritual significance continues to evoke awe and reverence among those who behold it.

Source: Orthodox icon | Mother of God of the “Three Joys” | 24752 © 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