Icon - Mother of God Hodegetria - Brass, Enamel

Beautiful Russian brass icon of the Mother of God Hodegetria with enamel, 19th century

Beautiful Russian brass icon with blue and white enamel, depicting the Mother of God of the Hodegetria type. This iconographic motif belongs to the most classical and theologically meaningful Marian representations within the Orthodox tradition.

Description
The icon shows the Mother of God in half-figure with the Christ Child on her left arm. With her right hand she points to Him and presents Him as the Way to salvation, which is characteristic of the Hodegetria type. Her posture is dignified and frontal, with a gaze slightly directed toward the child. The Christ Child is depicted blessing and holds in his other hand a scroll as a symbol of His teaching. Both figures are equipped with nimbuses. In the background are the traditional abbreviations in Church Slavonic script, including 'ΜΡ ΘΥ' for Mother of God and 'IC XC' for Jesus Christ.

The background is rendered in deep blue enamel with star-shaped motifs, referring to Mary as Queen of Heaven and to her role within the salvific historical plan. The contrast between the gold-colored brass and the dark enamel gives the icon strong visual depth. The frame is finely ornamented with a subtle decorative pattern.
Such enameled brass icons were produced in Russia in the 19th century for use in domestic prayer corners and as objects of personal devotion.

Period: 19th century
Material: Brass with enamel
Origin: Russia

Condition
In good condition with appropriate age-related and use signs. The enamel shows slight wear and small irregularities appropriate to its age. The brass has a warm natural patina. See photos for your own impression.

Dimensions
Height: 11.8 cm
Width: 9.4 cm
Depth: 0.4 cm

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