M. Palumbo - Icona Sacra - Madre del dolce bacio - 40 x 55 cm

Icon of the Mother of God of the Sweet Kiss (Glykophilousa) – Tempera on panel (40x55 cm)
Details of the Work:
Subject: Madonna of the Sweet Kiss / Eleusa (Glykophilousa) with the Child Jesus
Dimensions: 40 x 55 cm (Panel thickness: 1 cm)
Technique: Tempera and gold/silver finish on panel
Author: Master Iconographer of Monte Sant'Angelo (FG)
Conditions: Original unique work, perfect in every detail
Back finish: Back finished in homogeneous brown acrylic color
Origin and Notes on the Author:
The work depicts the Virgin Mary in a tender and deep embrace with the Son, according to the famous Byzantine iconographic type of the "Sweet Kiss" (Glykophilousa).
Made according to the most rigorous and ancient canons of the Byzantine tradition, the panel is the work of a master iconographer operating in Monte Sant'Angelo. The author learned and perfected this ancient spiritual and painting technique at the Pulsano Abbey, where the Pulsan monks handed down sacred art to him and where he earned the official certificate as an iconographer.
Sacrality and Blessing:
This icon is not merely a decorative object or element, but a true "window onto the divine," a theological instrument designed to foster prayer, meditation, and deep contemplation.
The author, being from Monte Sant'Angelo, has already arranged for the work to be blessed directly inside the Sacred Celestial Cave, a place of worship unique in the world because it is consecrated directly by God and not by human hands. For this spiritual reason, the icon does not require further blessings.
Symbolism and Theology of Colors and Details:
In Catholic doctrine and the theology of sacred imagery, every color and stylistic detail holds a precise theological meaning:
The Red/Purple Maphorion of the Virgin: It symbolizes the fire of the Holy Spirit, maternal suffering, divine love, and Mary’s royalty as Mother of God.
The White Veil/Garment of the Child Jesus: It represents absolute purity, the light of the Transfiguration, innocence, and the baptismal garment of Grace.
The Star on the Head (and Shoulders): It represents Mary’s perpetual virginity (before, during, and after the birth) and defines her as the "Star of the Morning" guiding the faithful to Christ.
The Luminary Nimbi (Aureoles): They reflect the Inaccessible Light of the Kingdom of Heaven, deep holiness, and the eternal glory enveloping the sacred figures.
The Embrace and the Brushed Cheek: The intimate gesture of affection reveals both Mary’s human and maternal dimension and the theological prophecy of Christ’s future Passion, accepted with silent devotion.