Madonna and Child

The image of Mary and the baby Jesus is one of the most common motifs in art, with countless versions of the scene captured in works over the centuries. From early on, the scene became a major motif of icon painting in the Russian Orthodox Church. In some cases, icons representing Mary and the baby Jesus have been destinations for pilgrimages, and the scene has even been thought to hold protective power against attack in monasteries and cities.

This icon differs stylistically from the other Russian icons on the wall, but its motif and composition spring from the same religious image history. This piece has a gold background with stamped halos. Stamping, or embossing, is a method of creating relief patterns in metal. The frame is silver. Maria’s gown and mantle are green, while Jesus is clothed in green with a violet mantle. In Christianity, the color green represents the victory of spring over winter and thus the triumph of life over death.