The artwork, titled “Blachernitissa (Theotokos of Blachernae),” is attributed to Orthodox Icons and dates back to circa 439. This piece was created using the encaustic medium and belongs to the Early Byzantine art movement, which spanned from approximately 330 to 750. As an icon, this artwork measures 46 by 37.5 centimeters and is part of the “Virgin Mary, Mother of God” series. Currently, it is housed in the Dormition (Assumption) Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork depicts the Theotokos (Mother of God) holding young Christ. The Theotokos stands in the center, adorned with a veil, and is depicted with a solemn and devout expression. The Christ child is seated on the Theotokos’s left arm, with a gesture of blessing. The backgrounds of the figures are rendered in gold, emphasizing their holy significance. The combination of richly colored garments and the gold background creates a striking contrast, typical of Byzantine iconography. The figures are stylized, conveying spiritual depth and reverence more than realistic representation. The deeply spiritual and symbolic nature of the artwork makes it a significant piece in the tradition of Orthodox Christian iconography.
