Virgin Mary in the face of death (Virgin Mary of Charon)
Original oil painting on wood panel
16" x 20" / 41 cm x 51 cm, 2023
This is my representation of the 17th century Greek icon. It is the only icon of Virgin Mary where she is gently holding the crucifixion instead of being pictured with Jesus as a child.
For me the original greek name of this icon «Παναγία του Χάρου» which means “Virgin Mary of Charon” is very interesting since it shows how the old greek pagan tradition resonates with early Christianity of the times of the Byzantine Empire. Here Jesus is compared to the Greek mythological character Charon who is a psychopomp, the ferryman of the Greek underworld. He carries the souls of those who have been given funeral rites across the rivers Acheron and Styx, which separate the worlds of the living and the dead. Jesus inherits the psychopomp role which in greek tradition was not to judge but to guide the deceased and Jesus leads them to heaven.
The Virgin Mary facing her crucified son is revealing the peace she found with her invincible faith in God and trust in his plan, so the crucifix symbolizes the everlasting hope for salvation, gaining eternal life, resurrection and victory over death.
The victory over death is manifested also by the lilies on the icon. In the 1940s one woman was praying in front of this icon and got healed. In gratitude she left lilies on the icon. After these lilies withered they came back to life in a year and started blooming again. Since then every year people on island Leipsoi in Greece where the original of this icon is located witness the “miracle with lilies”.
This is not the first time this icon occurs on my mind, my first attempt to paint it was in 2007 when I was 14. For some reason I have been always fascinated with this particular imaging of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ and maybe one day my skills will match the feelings.
PRUDOCT INFO
This one-of-a-kind oil painting is created with the highest-quality materials on a gallery-wrapped canvas. Every edge is carefully painted, making framing optional but not necessary. The depth and richness of oil paint bring an unmatched vibrancy and longevity to the artwork, ensuring it remains a timeless piece in your collection.
Each painting is sealed with a removable protective varnish to preserve its colors and texture over time. It comes ready to hang, allowing you to display it instantly in your space.
A Certificate of Authenticity, personally issued, signed, and stamped by the artist, Katerina Miller, is included to guarantee its originality.
If you’d like to see how this artwork would look in your space, I can Photoshop it onto your wall—simply provide clear photos of your interior, and I’ll create a preview for you.
RETURN & REFUND POLICY
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Each painting is carefully packaged in a secure box to ensure safe transit and is shipped with full insurance for your protection. In the rare case of damage during shipping, a return or professional repair may be possible.
To file a claim, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery confirmation with clear photos of the damage. Each case will be reviewed individually to determine the best solution.
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SHIPPING
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