Mother and child, (Galaktotrophoussa) and Saint John

Material: Wood, Tempera paint, Gold leaf
Date range: 16th century AD
Origin: Unknown

This rectangular wooden icon depicts the Virgin Mary nursing the Christ Child, a specific type of iconography known as the Galaktotrophoussa. The Virgin, on the left, is wearing a dark maphorion trimmed in gold, over a reddish garment. Her face is characterized by a melancholic expression. The Christ Child, dressed in a white and pink tunic, sits on her left arm, facing the viewer, and is holding a small object (possibly fruit or a globe) in his hand.

To the right of the Virgin and Child stands Saint John the Baptist (the Prodromos). He is depicted in a rugged, ascetic manner with long, dark hair and a beard, dressed in simple, dark garments, a clear contrast to the richness of the Virgin's attire. He points with his right hand towards the Christ Child, fulfilling his traditional role as the Forerunner who identifies the Messiah. In his left hand, he holds a long staff surmounted by a cross and a coiled serpent. A small lamb is visible at his feet, another symbolic attribute. The overall style, including the use of rich colors, defined halos, and the explicit depiction of a theological moment, dates the icon to the 16th century AD.

Museum label reference: Icon with the Virgin nursing the Child (Galaktotrophoussa) and Saint John the Baptist. 16th c. BXM 11512

Original Text: Εικόνα της Θεοτόκου Γαλακτοτροφούσας με τον άγιο Ιωάννη Πρόδρομο. 16ος αι. BXM 11512

Supplementary images: