Panagia Glykophilousa Virgin Mary icon, Vintage Canvas Serigraphy Handmade Greek Orthodox icon Byzantine art wall hanging wood, religious plaque

Handmade Vintage Serigraphy Plaque –Panagia Glykophilousa

This handcrafted vintage serigraphy plaque depicted Panagia Glykophilousa, features a unique aging technique that gives it a beautiful vintage look on hagiography canvas. Made by skilled artisans by following the technique instilled in Mount Athos - one of the most beloved pictorial themes. This wonderful serigraphy canvas icon has been crafted on solid natural wood and it was carved by hand.

This exquisite Byzantine serigraphy icon ,depicting Virgin Mary / Panagia Glykophilousa (Sweet Kissing) while adhering to the esteemed Athonian technique. Its intricate artistry not only conveys deep religious significance but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of any setting. 

The story of this Icon is connected to the iconoclasm. During the reign of Emperor Theophilus in the early ninth century, his wife, Victoria, the devout and virtuous spouse of Simeon the Patrician, had this remarkable Icon in her home. However, as the enemies of Icons were searching homes to find and burn them, punishing their owners, she sadly felt compelled to remove it. She took the Icon to the seaside of Constantinople, kissed it one last time, and prayed to the Virgin Mary for a way to protect it. She then placed it in the sea. Miraculously, the Icon stood upright and began to float from the Sea of Marmara toward the Hellespont. The devoted woman thanked the Theotokos, understanding that it was her will for the Icon to be preserved.

Tradition holds that it landed on the eastern side of Mount Athos, specifically at the port of the Holy Monastery of Philotheou. However, at that time, the Monastery had not yet been founded, so the Icon remained unknown for 150 years. Once the Monastery of Philotheou was established and organized as a coenobium, the Icon appeared on the shore. The Fathers saw it and came down in procession, as it seemed the Icon wished to be delivered to the Monastery. As they approached, they noticed it shining, and with the first gestures of the abbot toward the sea, the Icon was entrusted to him. When it emerged from the water at the place where it was set down, a holy spring flowed forth, which still exists today. With prayers and gratitude, they placed it in the main church of the Monastery.

This icon is designed for versatile display; it can be hung on a wall or placed on a flat surface, making it an elegant addition to any home or sacred space. The harmonious blend of religious themes and artistic craftsmanship, along with its rich theological context, renders it a meaningful tribute to the Christian faith.