Icon of Virgin Mary Kecharitomene (Full of Grace) from Xenophontos Monastery

The miraculous Icon of the Blessed Virgin is situated in the altar area of the Xenophontos Monastery, enclosed within an ornate wooden frame. Due to the numerous miracles attributed to it, monks revere and place it on the synthronon, reflecting their deep veneration.

Iconographic Depiction

Virgin Mary Kecharitomene is portrayed cradling Christ, depicted from the back, engaging with His Mother, caressing her face with His right hand. The Virgin holds one foot of the Infant in one hand and a sealed scroll in the other. Distinctive details of the icon symbolically illustrate the themes of human incarnation and the Passion, as evident from Christ’s attire and exposed feet. Set against a golden backdrop, the inscription reads, "Mother of God Kecharitomene". The lively pose of the Infant juxtaposed against the melancholic expression of His Mother foreshadows Christ's impending Passion.

Historical Significance

This representation stands as the oldest modified version of the Virgin Mary's "Tenderness" iconography. The monastery’s revered icon is also known as "Pelagonitissa", named after another icon of the Virgin Mary from Pelagonia and dates back to the 13th century. It's especially venerated in Northern Greece, home to many icons of this type. An early example can be found in a fresco adorning the Church of St. George in North Macedonia, in the village of Staro Nagorichane (1316-1318).