24. Mother of God the Consolation of All the Afflicted

Details

Russian, late 19th century, Mstera
35.7 x 31 cms

Provenance:
Private collection, The Netherlands.

Description:
The representation of the Mother of God, Consolation of All the Afflicted, appeared in Russia in the 17th century. In 1643 the prototype icon was in Moscow where Euphemia, the sister of Patriarch Joachim, was healed from disease after praying to the icon. Thereafter the icon was considered miracle-working and gained enormous popularity. It became a highly-venerated image.

The Virgin is depicted full-strength and inclines her head towards the people who ask for her help. The afflicted – the poor, naked and lame – are shown accompanied by angels, turning towards the Virgin. She is their consolation and intercedes for them with her son. On the banners are fragments of prayers to the Mother of God.

The Orthodox Church celebrates her feast day on June 23.

The two border saints are on the left side the Guardian Angel, to the right Saint Eudokia.