The Story Behind This Icon
Before her Dormition, the Most Holy Theotokos called all the Holy Apostles to Jerusalem. Being spread across the world preaching the Gospel, each Apostle was brought to her on a cloud, with the exception of Thomas, whose absence was by the providence of God. Thomas arrived three days later, seeing the Theotokos being taken up into Heaven and he cried out to her. She gave him her belt, which had been woven from camel hair. This Holy Icon depicts the Theotokos holding the belt. It is one of the few depictions showing the Mother of God without Christ, because in this case the subject of the Holy Icon is the Holy Belt, reminding the viewer of the Virgin Mary's direct and active presence in our world as a protector and healer.
The Holy Belt remained in Jerusalem until it was eventually moved to Constantinople and later Mount Athos, always healing the faithful, a physical reminder of the presence of the Theotokos and her motherly love. The Holy Belt is particularly known for aid to mothers who have difficulty conceiving children or otherwise in pregnancy but also is known to have healed illnesses of all forms. It is the only surviving relic of the Theotokos.
In the Holy Monastery of Vatopedi on Mount Athos, there is a tradition of giving to pilgrims a small piece of cloth with a blessing from the Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary so that the pilgrims may take her grace with them. Thanks to these small pieces, a great number of miracles has been performed. Among other things, there are numerous cases of couples who were unable to have a child and who, thanks to the Virgin Mary, managed to become parents.
***
This icon is made of solid, natural limewood (Tilia) that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background consists of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece. Subtle connecting lines and brush strokes may be visible on the gold leaves and are a testament to the artisan's hand, making each piece entirely unique.
Our most popular dimensions are pictured, to scale.
Depending on the size and theme, Holy Icons are available in both Recessed and Level styles.
RECESSED
The groove in our recessed icons adds depth to the Iconography, making the icon even more dramatic and impressive. In order to keep the relative proportions, the depth of the groove changes with the size of the Holy Icon.
LEVEL
Level icons allow the Iconography to retain its boldness even in smaller sizes. As such most of our level icons have smaller dimensions.
Backside details vary with icon size and serve to ensure that your Holy Icon will stand the test of time.
Solid wooden icons of larger dimensions are prone to bending and damaging as time passes. Fortunately, our Holy Icons are supported by two additional, horizontal wooden protective panels on the backside. These panels bolster the icon and allow it to sustain its shape, ensuring that your Holy Icon will remain in its original, pristine condition as it is passed down from generation to generation.
Icons of smaller dimensions are naturally sustainable over time, and experience less structural stress. As such, you will find that the backside of smaller Holy Icons is flat and proportional to their shape.
