The artwork titled “The Nicopeia Virgin and Child”, created around c.1120, is a significant piece within the Middle Byzantine (c. 850–1204) art movement, specifically the Komnenian style (1081-1185). Rendered by an unidentified artist categorized under “Orthodox Icons”, this piece belongs to the genre of religious icons and is part of the series depicting the Virgin Mary, Mother of God.
The artwork features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, both figures enclosed within a striking frame of gold. The Mother of God is depicted with a solemn and iconic expression, encapsulating the revered and holy essence typical of Byzantine icons. The Christ Child is seated on her lap, with his right hand raised in blessing. The use of gold leaf as the background enhances the divine and heavenly connotation associated with these figures. True to Byzantine tradition, the composition emphasizes the spiritual and otherworldly presence rather than naturalism, characterized by frontality and an absence of spatial depth.