The artwork “Virgin Psychosostria Ohrid,” attributed to the collective of artisans known as Orthodox Icons, is an iconic representation believed to have been created circa 1350. It belongs to the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance period, a time marked by a flourish in art and culture in the Byzantine Empire roughly from 1261 to 1453. This period is characterized by a reinvigoration of classical themes and an interest in humanism, which can be seen reflected in the artwork. The icon is part of a series dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, and is a representation of religious devotion and iconography common during this era.
The artwork features the Virgin Mary, rendered with the traditionally somber yet serene expression typical of Late Byzantine religious iconography. She is depicted holding the Christ Child, who is shown seated on her arm and blessing with His right hand. Both figures are adorned in richly detailed and elaborately patterned garments, illustrating the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that was prevalent among artists of that time.
The surface of the artwork is textured, with gold leaf applied to create a luminous background, emphasizing the sacred nature of the figures and evoking a sense of the divine. Surrounding the central figures are smaller depictions of saints, each ensconced within their own arch-shaped frame, connecting the central theme of the Virgin Mary to a broader spiritual context within the Christian faith. The stylization of the figures, with elongated proportions and heightened gestures, is typical of the iconography of the era, representing not only the physical likeness but also the spiritual essence of the sacred individuals.
The border of the icon features intricate patterns that demonstrate the influence of Eastern ornamental design, integrating the icon further into the rich tradition of Orthodox religious art. This artwork, therefore, not only serves as an object of worship but also as a testament to the complex interplay of spirituality and artistic expression during the Late Byzantine/Palaeologan Renaissance.
