Virgin Blachernitissa

Work Number: 580241
Title: Virgin Blachernitissa
Approximate date: 13th c
Description: Suspended by a chain is a medallion adorned with an image of the Virgin Blachernitissa carved in low relief. The Theotokos appears to be seated with her legs and arms wrapped the Christ Child who stands upright. The Christ Child's hand gestures are now difficult to interpret, however, in other images of the same iconographic type, he is shown with his hands out to either side as Christ Emmanuel. Here, his hands appear to be closer to his chest. Two registers of saints stand on the dado level of the plaque and another register of saints appears in the shape of an arch surrounding the Theotokos and Christ Child. All of the saints whose hands are shown, gesture towards the Theotokos and Christ Child. Above the last register of saints is a row of domes with crosses, most likely indicating churches. Between each church is a tree.

The Virgin Blachernitissa scene is framed by a narrow pointed arch. This frame is bordered by a Greek inscription. The medallion is set within a metal mount that contains a vine motif with inlaid gem stones.
Medium: Metal mount
Subject: Virgin Blachernitissa; Virgin Nikopoios
Provenance: Gallery, case 5