Virgin
Hodegetria
Italian, 16th century
Tempera on wood
Saint Luke is credited with painting the first icon of the Virgin
and Child in this manner. Known as the Theotokos Hodegetria, Saint
Lukes icon was allegedly shipped from Jerusalem to Constantinople
in the fifth century where it was housed in the Hodegon Monastery
beginning in the twelfth century. Like all icons, the Theotokos
Hodegetria was venerated for its intercessory powers. It was paraded
weekly in processions and appealed to particularly in times of crisis
until its reported destruction during the sack of Constantinople
in 1453.
Painted in typical Byzantine style, Mary and Jesus are depicted
frontally and set against a flat background. The Theotokos Hodegetria
is characterized by the interaction of mother and child. Mary holds
Jesus in her left arm and points to him with her right hand, a gesture
acknowledging that he is the one true way. Jesus lifts
his right arm, his hand posed in a gesture of benediction. In his
left he holds a scroll, in reference to the Word.
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Madonna
and Child (Guanyin)
Chinese, late Ming Dynasty (1580-1644)
Ivory, rosewood base
This figure was carved in China for a European market. It is modelled
on figures of Guanyin, the Chinese goddess of mercy. According to
Chinese tradtion, Guanyin
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