Theotokos Glykophilousa Icon

The Theotokos Glykophilousa Icon, meaning “Sweet Kissing,” is a representation of the Mother of God embracing the Christ Child. It belongs to the Eleusa, or Virgin of Tenderness, tradition of Orthodox iconography. This icon is hand-painted using traditional egg tempera on a thick natural wood panel. Gold leaf is applied through traditional gilding. The protective varnish helps preserve the painted surface and craftsmanship.

Iconography and Symbolism:

The Virgin Mary inclines her head toward Christ, while the Christ Child embraces His Mother. Their faces are brought closely together, expressing maternal tenderness, compassion, and the profound bond between Mother and Son. The affectionate gesture is central to the Glykophilousa iconographic type, which is distinguished by the particularly close embrace of the Theotokos and Christ. The icon also expresses the mystery of the Incarnation. The Glykophilousa is especially associated with the famous icon of Mount Athos at Philotheou Monastery. According to Orthodox tradition, the icon was preserved during the period of iconoclasm and later miraculously arrived at Mount Athos. The Orthodox Church commemorates the Mount Athos “Sweet Kissing” icon on March 27 and also on Bright Monday.

Feast Day:

March 27 — Icon of the Mother of God of Mount Athos, “Sweet Kissing”
Bright Monday — Icon of the Mother of God of Mount Athos, “Sweet Kissing”

Gift Suggestions:

-Baptism and Christening gifts
-Gifts for Marian feast days
-Birthday and name-day gifts
-Wedding and anniversary gifts
-Housewarming and house blessing gifts
-Gifts for mothers and families
-A beautiful addition to a collection of traditional Orthodox icons