Theotokos Holy Belt Icon

The Theotokos Holy Belt Icon depicts the Most Holy Theotokos holding the sacred sash associated with her earthly life. Known as the Holy Belt, Holy Sash, or Cincture of the Theotokos, this image recalls one of the treasured relics associated with the Mother of God and emphasizes her unique place in the mystery of the Incarnation. The icon is hand-painted using traditional egg tempera on a thick natural wood panel. Gold leaf is applied through traditional gilding, and a protective varnish helps preserve the painted surface and craftsmanship.

Iconography and Symbolism:

The Virgin Mary is shown standing with her arms extended while holding the sash before her. Two angels appear above her, turning toward the Theotokos in reverence. The composition draws attention to the sacred belt as a sign connected with the earthly life of the Mother of God and with the mystery of Christ’s Incarnation. The sash is traditionally understood as a precious relic associated with the Most Holy Theotokos. According to Orthodox tradition, it was entrusted to the Apostle Thomas after her Dormition and was later preserved and placed in a church in Constantinople. The feast commemorates the placing of the venerable belt in the Church of the Theotokos at Chalcoprateia.

Feast Day:

August 31 — The Placing of the Venerable Belt of the Most Holy Theotokos

Gift Suggestions:

-Marian feast day gifts
-Baptism and Christening gifts
-Wedding and anniversary gifts
-Housewarming and house blessing gifts
-A meaningful addition to a home prayer corner or Orthodox icon collection