Russian icon, Mother of God of the Three Hands, 19th century, 17x15 in
Russian icon, Mother of God of the Three Hands, 19th century, 17x15 in.
The icon of the Mother of God of the Three Hands is linked to the tradition of Saint John of Damascus, who was unjustly accused and punished by the amputation of his right hand. After fervent prayer before an image of the Theotokos, he was miraculously healed; in gratitude he had a silver votive hand applied to the icon, giving rise to the distinctive iconography featuring the “third hand”.
Over the centuries the icon was pres...
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Russian icon, Mother of God of the Three Hands, 19th century, 17x15 in.
The icon of the Mother of God of the Three Hands is linked to the tradition of Saint John of Damascus, who was unjustly accused and punished by the amputation of his right hand. After fervent prayer before an image of the Theotokos, he was miraculously healed; in gratitude he had a silver votive hand applied to the icon, giving rise to the distinctive iconography featuring the “third hand”.
Over the centuries the icon was preserved and transmitted until it arrived at the Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos, where it is still venerated. According to tradition, the Virgin herself indicated that she wished to be considered the monastery’s true guide, making this image a symbol of protection, spiritual guidance and intercession.
The work is executed in the traditional egg tempera technique on a wood panel prepared with levkas, in accordance with the canons of Russian iconography, which render each piece unique and rich in religious meaning.
Origin: Moscow, Russia.
Technique: Egg tempera on wood prepared with levkas.
Dimensions: 17.4x15.2 in.
Period: mid-19th century.