The artwork, titled “The Virgin of the Burning Bush,” was created by an artist belonging to the “Orthodox Icons” group circa 1598. This piece, executed using tempera, belongs to the Moscow school of icon painting and fits within the genre of icons. It is part of the “Virgin Mary, Mother of God” series and is currently housed in the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
This iconographic artwork showcases the Virgin Mary at its center, adorned in traditional robes, holding the Christ Child. Surrounding the central figure are various segmented scenes, each containing biblical imagery and figures, consistent with the intricate and symbolic style of Moscow’s icon painting tradition. The artwork’s detailed backdrop is highlighted by the use of rich hues, particularly reds and golds, which help to underscore the divine and holy subject matter within the piece. The surrounding elements appear to narrate significant biblical events, with angels and other sacred figures integrated into the composition, conveying a strong sense of religious reverence and theological depth. This arrangement brings forth a visual representation of the divine protection and intercession attributed to the Virgin Mary in Orthodox Christianity.
