Icon of Virgin Mary Galaktotrofousa (The Nursing) from Skete of Prophet Elijah

The Miraculous Icon of Virgin Mary Galaktotrofousa graces the royal doors of the St. Nicholas chapel within the Skete of Prophet Elijah.

Historical Significance

In the 19th century, as monks of the Skete of Prophet Elijah ventured into Russia to raise funds for their construction projects, this icon performed numerous miracles. Often, these monks traveled to Russia with holy relics and other sanctities for veneration. A replica of this icon found its way to Odessa city, where it remains to this day.

Iconographic Details

The Virgin Mary is depicted with a subtle turn to the left, following the "Galaktotrofousa" iconography. Holding the Infant Jesus with her right hand, she leans gently towards Him. This rare iconographic style showcases the Divine Infant's feeding moment. The icon's lower portion features medallions with St. Nicholas the Wonderworker and St. John the Baptist, complemented by inscriptions in Old Slavic.

Artistic Craftsmanship

The icon's lavish cover is an authentic artistic masterpiece. Between the two saints lies another Old Slavic inscription, highlighting the icon's miraculous nature and its presence at the Russian Skete of Prophet Elijah on the Holy Mount Athos. Both the icon and its ornate cover are exemplary artworks from the 19th century.