Theotokos Sweet Kissing Icon

This beautiful hand-painted Theotokos Sweet Kissing Icon, known in Greek as Glykophilousa, presents the Most Holy Theotokos and Christ Child in a deeply tender embrace. The faces of the Mother and Child gently touch as Christ turns toward His Mother, creating an intimate composition centered on love, tenderness, and the sacred relationship between them. Painted with traditional egg tempera on a thick natural wood panel, this icon combines the expressive tenderness of the Glykophilousa type with traditional Byzantine-inspired iconographic technique and detailed gilding.

The Glykophilousa, or “Sweet Kissing,” is one of the tender iconographic types of the Mother of God.

 Christ’s halo identifies Him as the divine Son, while the traditional three stars on the garment of the Theotokos symbolize her perpetual virginity.

The rich red and blue garments of the Theotokos contrast beautifully with the golden halos and luminous details. The gold leaf symbolizes the heavenly glory surrounding the sacred figures, while the deep blue background gives the composition a strong and contemplative presence.

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

-A meaningful gift for someone devoted to the Most Holy Theotokos

-A beautiful addition to a home prayer corner or family altar

-A baptism or chrismation gift

-A thoughtful gift for parents and families