The artwork titled “Outlaying of Mary’s Corpse with Mourning Saints,” created by an artist whose works are collectively known under “Orthodox Icons,” dates from circa 1250 to circa 1300. This piece belongs to the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance period (circa 1261–1453) and the Latin Empire of Constantinople (1204-1261). As part of the “Holydays and Events of Sacred History” series, this icon measures 44.4 x 33.4 cm and is housed at Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai in Egypt.
The artwork presents a poignant scene illustrating the funeral of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by mourning saints. Central to the composition is Mary’s recumbent body, enveloped in a red shroud. Surrounding her are solemn figures, identified as saints by their haloed heads, expressing varied forms of sorrow and prayer. At the center-top of the piece, Christ is depicted holding a small child symbolizing the soul of Mary, signifying her transition to the divine realm. The intricate details, vibrant colors, and expressions of the figures are characteristic of Late Byzantine iconography, emphasizing both spirituality and emotional depth. The background features architectural elements and angels that contribute to the sacred atmosphere of the scene. The overall composition reflects the devout reverence and theological depth that are hallmarks of Byzantine religious art.
