The artwork titled “Mother of God Glykophilousa,” attributed to the artist known as “Orthodox Icons,” is dated to approximately 1450 and belongs to the Cretan school of icon painting. This piece, which is part of a series focused on the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, is rendered in the genre of iconography, a significant form of religious art within the Orthodox Christian tradition.
In the artwork, the Virgin Mary is depicted in a tender, intimate pose with the Christ Child. Mary is portrayed in traditional iconographic style, wearing a deep red maphorion adorned with golden trim, her serious and contemplative expression highlighting the reverence and solemnity commonly found in Orthodox depictions. The Christ Child, vested in regal gold and dark blue garments, nestles close to Mary, his small hand tenderly touching her face, symbolizing the divine connection and maternal affection. The background of the icon is filled with luminous gold leaf, signifying the holy and sacred nature of the subjects. The intricately detailed halo surrounding Mary’s head further emphasizes her sanctity, as she gazes directly at the observer with a calm, serene demeanor. This piece stands as a quintessential example of the Cretan school’s meticulous artistry and deep spiritual resonance, embodying both the devotional purpose and the aesthetic brilliance of Orthodox icon painting.
