The artwork titled “Mary Enthroned with two Saints” by Orthodox Icons, created circa 1400, exemplifies the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance art movement, which spanned from approximately 1261 to 1453. This piece belongs to the icon genre and is part of the “Virgin Mary, Mother of God” series. The artwork is currently housed in the Louvre, Paris, France.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary seated on a throne with two saints standing beside her. The Virgin is positioned centrally, dressed in rich, dark garments that contrast with the gold background and her serene, solemn expression. The ethereal gold leaf emphasizes the divine nature of the subjects. The two saints, positioned on either side of Mary, are rendered with dignified postures and also wear elaborately detailed robes, underscoring their sanctity. The icon captures the spiritual grandeur and profound reverence characteristic of Byzantine religious art. The wear and aging of the piece do not detract from its powerful visual and devotional impact; rather, they imbue it with historical authenticity and enduring sacredness.
