The artwork, named “John Damascene with a Severed Hand Praying to the Mother of God,” attributed to the artist known as “Orthodox Icons,” is dated between circa 1650 and circa 1750. This piece falls into the genre of iconography and belongs to the series depicting saints.
Depicting a solemn and devotional scene, the artwork illustrates Saint John Damascene kneeling in prayer with a severed hand placed before him. His gaze is directed upwards towards an image of the Mother of God, who is holding the Christ Child, adorned in rich and intricate garments. The Mother of God, positioned within a golden, ornate backdrop, exudes a sense of divine presence and sanctity. The saint, garbed in traditional clerical attire with red and green hues, emanates an air of pious reverence. The entire scene is framed by an elaborate arch that enhances the spiritual ambiance of the icon. The detailed gold background and patterned textures highlight the sacred and mystical nature of the portrayed moment.
