Miniature Annunciation Icon

Hand-painted in egg tempera on solid wood, this miniature Annunciation icon features gold leaf on the background and hand-crafted gilded ornamentation throughout. A protective varnish completes the panel, and it comes with a certificate of authenticity, ready to give as a gift for a home icon corner.

Iconography and Symbolism

The Archangel Gabriel is shown approaching the Theotokos, one hand lifted in the sign of divine announcement, while she appears in humble acceptance with her hand raised in wonder and assent. A vessel holding a blooming lily stands between them as a symbol of her purity, and from a small arc of heaven above, a beam of light descends, bringing the Holy Spirit toward her. The inscription says “The Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos,” and the Archangel is named “Holy Archangel Gabriel.” This icon recalls the instant the Incarnation commenced: the Theotokos received the angel’s message and freely agreed to bear the Son of God, saying, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.” It belongs to the Twelve Great Feasts of the Orthodox liturgical year and is read when the Gospel of the Annunciation is proclaimed each spring.

Feast Day March 25 (Old Calendar) / April 7 (New Calendar)

Gift Suggestions

-A thoughtful miniature present for baptism, chrismation, or a name day in honor of the Theotokos
-A suitable small icon for travel, a desk, or a modest icon corner
-An elegant gift for the start of a new life or a new venture
-A considerate gift for expectant mothers