036-BM Mother of God of Vladimir Icon

In the 12th century, the Vladimir icon was brought to Rus from Byzantium as a gift for Prince Mstislav Vladimirovich and later housed in the Virgin Monastery of Vyshhorod. In 1155, it was moved to Vladimir by St. Andrei Bogolyubsky, who placed it in the newly built Assumption Cathedral, solidifying its significance in Russian Orthodox tradition. The icon, commemorated on various days with August 26 being the most important, played a pivotal role in the spiritual connection between Russia and Byzantium. Notably, in 1395, its veneration contributed to Tamerlane's decision to withdraw his forces from Rus after experiencing a divine vision linked to the Virgin Mary.

Mother of God of Vladimir icon reflects the artistry of lacquered icons workshop, where we create folding icons, crosses, and various-sized icons.

The creation process begins with preparing wooden boards, which are cut into smaller panels and smoothed into refined oval shapes. These panels are transformed into polished lamellas that are then glued together to form a solid base. After selecting and laminating images stored for this purpose, artisans fit these images to the panels, cutting and verifying their symmetry before applying special glue to secure them. A final polish enhances durability and aesthetics.

Once the icons are fully dried, they undergo a blessing ritual, with a stamp of authenticity from the convent placed on the back. Each lacquered icon, crafted through this meticulous process, serves as thoughtful gift, or as part of your prayer corner.