“Theotokos of Tolga III,” created in 1327 by Orthodox Icons, is a notable work belonging to the Yaroslavl school of icon painting. This piece, classified within the icon genre and part of the “Virgin Mary, Mother of God” series, is presently housed in the Russian Museum located in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary, affectionately known as the Theotokos, tenderly holding the Christ child. The Madonna is graphically rendered with regal bearing, her head inclined towards her son in an intimate gesture of maternal bond and divine affection. The icon is painted in rich, earthy tones, showcasing traditional elements characteristic of the Yaroslavl school, such as detailed halos, draped garments, and a sense of sacred solemnity. Time has bestowed upon the surface a patina, subtly dimming the vibrancy of the original colors yet imbuing the artwork with a profound sense of historical authenticity and reverence. The Theotokos of Tolga III stands as a significant religious icon, embodying the spiritual depth and artistic finesse of medieval Russian craftsmanship.
