Russian icon mid-19th century Our Lady of the Three Hands 44x38 cm
Russian icon Our Lady of the Three Hands, mid-19th century, 44.2 x 38.7 cm. The Our Lady of the Three Hands icon is linked to the tradition of Saint John of Damascus, who was unjustly accused and punished by the amputation of his right hand. After fervent prayer before an image of the Mother of God he was miraculously healed; in gratitude he had a silver votive hand applied to the icon, giving rise to the characteristic 'third hand' iconography. Over the centuries the religious icon was preserve...
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Russian icon Our Lady of the Three Hands, mid-19th century, 44.2 x 38.7 cm. The Our Lady of the Three Hands icon is linked to the tradition of Saint John of Damascus, who was unjustly accused and punished by the amputation of his right hand. After fervent prayer before an image of the Mother of God he was miraculously healed; in gratitude he had a silver votive hand applied to the icon, giving rise to the characteristic 'third hand' iconography. Over the centuries the religious icon was preserved and ultimately brought to the Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos, where it continues to be venerated. According to tradition, the Virgin indicated she wished to be regarded as the monastery's spiritual guide, making this icon a symbol of protection, guidance and intercession. Technique: Egg tempera on wood prepared with levkas. Materials: Wood, levkas. Dimensions: 44.2 x 38.7 cm. Period: mid-19th century. Origin: Moscow, Russia.