Banner Measures: 10 1/4" x 7 3/4",
Including Wooden Parts 8 3/4" wide,
Including hanger part from top to bottom: 14" tall
The Vladimir
Mother of God icon, a variation of the "Eleousa" or "Tenderness" iconographical type, is the most beloved
icon of all Russia. Orthodox tradition holds St Luke the Evangelist, the first iconographer, wrote (painted) the original "Vladimir" icon on boards from the table in the home of the Holy Family in Nazareth. It is believed St Luke knew the Virgin Mary and many of the Apostles; therefore, his representations are the pattern for later icon paintings. The letters "MP" and "O (Phi) Y" on either side is the Greek abbreviation for Mary as the "Mother of God." The "stars" on her head and shoulders represent Mary's virginity.
