The icon of Theotokos Athonitissa is the protector of all Fathers in Mount Athos, Greece and of all Christian Orthodox parishioners.
The Story Behind This Icon:
The Virgin Mary is the protector of Mount Athos. A couple of decades after the Disciples had traveled the world preaching the Gospel, the Virgin Mary asked her Son for this peninsula of Mount Athos to be forever dedicated as a place of worship and prayer. Christ granted her wish and since then, monastic communities have thrived on Mount Athos under Her protection. On this icon, the Virgin Mary is depicted standing at the base of Mount Athos, with the Athonite saints surrounding her.
The icon is celebrated on August 28.
***
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.
All of our icons are reproduced according to museum print standards and are authentic replicas of Holy Icons from Mount Athos and elsewhere.
Learn more about how our Holy Icons are made here.
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.
