Theotokos Three-Handed Icon (polished gold)

This hand-painted Orthodox icon of the Theotokos Three-Handed, also known as the Three-Handed Mother of God or Tricherousa, presents the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child in a traditional Byzantine composition. The distinctive third hand refers to the miraculous healing associated with Saint John of Damascus and the famous icon of the Mother of God preserved on Mount Athos. The icon is painted with egg tempera on a plywood panel and enriched with 24K genuine gold leaf. The gilded areas are carefully polished to create a luminous gold surface, while hand-engraved decorations add intricate floral and ornamental patterns to the gilded background and halo.

Iconography and Symbolism

The distinctive third hand is the defining feature of this iconographic type. According to Orthodox tradition, Saint John of Damascus received healing of his severed right hand after praying before an icon of the Theotokos. In gratitude, he attached a silver representation of his restored hand to the icon. The additional hand therefore represents the miraculous healing and Saint John’s thanksgiving to the Mother of God. The polished 24K genuine gold leaf creates a radiant background and enhances the halos and ornamental elements. The hand-engraved decorations add depth and texture to the gilded surface, while the egg tempera painting provides the rich colors and detailed modeling characteristic of traditional icon painting.The icon is finished with protective varnish to help preserve the painted and gilded surface. It ships in a protective box, making it suitable for devotional use, collection, or gifting.

Feast Day

June 28 and July 12 — Synaxis of the Icon of the Mother of God “Of the Three Hands.”

Gift Suggestions

-A meaningful gift for someone devoted to the Theotokos
-A special gift connected with Saint John of Damascus
-A beautiful addition to a home prayer corner
-A meaningful wedding or baptism gift
-A distinctive addition to a collection of hand-painted Orthodox icons