Virgin Mary The Merciful (Panagia Eleousa)

This wood carved, handmade icon depicts the Virgin Mary The Merciful, shown in the traditional Byzantine style. The Virgin Mary, known as Panagia Eleousa, is portrayed holding the Christ Child with profound gentleness and compassion. Her expression reflects maternal love, mercy, and spiritual consolation, while her hand gestures toward Christ, presenting Him as the source of salvation and eternal life. The Christ Child gazes toward His Mother with affection and trust, emphasizing the deep bond between them and the mystery of the Incarnation. The halo surrounding Christ bears the traditional Christogram, affirming His divine identity.

The garments of the Virgin are painted in radiant crimson and deep burgundy tones with delicate golden details, symbolizing purity, sacrifice, and heavenly royalty. The Christ Child is dressed in luminous blue and gold garments, representing His divinity and wisdom. The icon is enclosed within an ornate hand-carved wooden frame crowned by a Cross, richly decorated with traditional Byzantine motifs that enhance its sacred beauty and devotional character.

The background is covered with genuine 24-karat gold leaf, carefully applied by hand. The gold used is real 24K gold. The pigments are specially prepared traditional mixtures, following the methods used in historic iconography. These materials make the icon highly durable and resistant, allowing it to be preserved for hundreds of years, as seen in surviving ancient icons.

Each icon is authentic and handmade by skilled iconographers. Every stage of the process is completed by hand. The wooden panel and carved frame are specially selected and crafted by an expert woodcarver, ensuring stability, durability, and exceptional quality.