Panagia Pantanassa Icon

This icon of the Panagia Pantanassa is hand-painted in the traditional egg tempera technique on a solid linden wood panel with a raised border, following the canons preserved by the Orthodox iconographic tradition. Oak braces (slats) set into the back of the panel guard against warping, ensuring the icon remains stable for generations of veneration. 24 karat gold leaf is applied by hand to the background, symbolizing the uncreated light of God surrounding the Mother of God and her Son, with fine hand-engraved ornamentation worked into the gold to bring added depth and radiance to the halos. The panel is finished with a matte varnish for lasting protection and arrives with a certificate of authenticity, gift-ready for presentation in the home or for placement in a private icon corner.

Iconography and Symbolism
The Theotokos is shown seated upon a richly adorned royal throne, holding the Christ Child upon her lap, with two angels standing in reverent attendance on either side. The inscription “Η ΠΑΝΤΑΝΑΣΣΑ” identifies her by her title, “Queen of All” or “Sovereign Lady of All,” proclaiming her exalted place as Queen of Heaven, honored above the angels themselves. The inscription “ΜΡ ΘΥ” abbreviates the Greek “Meter Theou,” Mother of God, while “IC XC” identifies the Child as Jesus Christ.

The original Pantanassa icon is enshrined at Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos, where it has long been venerated as wonderworking, especially sought by those suffering from cancer and other grave illness. According to Athonite tradition, those who approach the icon with faith, even from great distances, have received healing through the Theotokos’s intercession. The icon’s regal composition affirms her unique dignity as Mother of God while its long history of miracles has made it one of the most beloved images of the Theotokos among the sick and suffering throughout the Orthodox world.

Feast Day
Venerated throughout the liturgical year on the many feasts of the Theotokos, particularly the Dormition of the Theotokos (August 15 / August 28).

Gift Suggestions
– A meaningful gift for those suffering illness, especially cancer, seeking healing through prayer
– A fitting gift for baptism, chrismation, or a name day honoring the Theotokos
– A comforting icon for hospital rooms or home prayer during illness
– A dignified addition to a home icon corner