Discover our exclusive collection of handmade Byzantine icons, crafted with devotion and deep respect for the Orthodox Christian tradition. Every piece is created entirely in our workshop in Greece and reflects the timeless beauty and spirituality of Byzantine art.

🔹 Product Description

This square handmade icon with wide beveled edges depicts the Virgin Mary of Blachernae with her hands raised in a gesture of supplication and prayer. The icon is adorned with four decorative bronze studs, enhancing its authentic Byzantine character and timeless elegance.

🔹 Artistic Process

All of our icons are faithful reproductions of authentic Byzantine prototypes. They are created using high-quality lithographic printing on paper mounted onto canvas, which is then carefully adhered to solid fir wood (never MDF). Each icon is enhanced with hand-finished artistic details, our signature aging technique, and protected with an eco-friendly water-based varnish to ensure exceptional durability over time.

Because every piece is handcrafted, slight variations may occur, making each icon truly unique.

🔹 Materials

Solid fir wood, iron, canvas, paper, and, depending on the icon or by special request, bronze, copper, fabric, and 8-karat gold leaf.

We use only natural solid wood for authenticity, durability, and long-lasting quality. Never MDF.

🔹 Certificate of Authenticity

Each icon is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Alexander Stratoulis is an official member of the Chamber of Fine Arts of Greece. Every stage of the design and finishing process is carried out exclusively in the GENESIS workshop using our distinctive artistic aging technique.

🔹 Weight & Dimensions

Height: 30 cm

Width: 30 cm

Thickness: 3 cm

Weight: 1,000 g

🔹 Custom Orders

We are pleased to accept custom requests for different sizes or iconographic subjects. Please contact us for more information or visit the custom icon section of our shop.

🔹 Packaging

Every order is carefully packaged with protective bubble wrap to ensure safe delivery, using environmentally friendly packaging materials designed to minimize weight.

🔹 Processing Time

Please allow 3–5 business days for preparation.

🔹 Estimated Shipping Time

Delivery to the United States typically takes 5–7 business days.

We ship via FedEx, TNT, and, in certain cases, Hellenic Post (ELTA).

🔹 Customs & Import Taxes

Please note that we cannot predict possible customs duties, import taxes, or delays in your country. Any additional customs charges are the responsibility of the buyer.

🔹 Returns Policy

According to European Union regulations, works of art are generally non-returnable. However, we do accept returns under the following conditions:

• Please contact us within 14 days of receiving your order.

• Return the item at your own expense using the same shipping carrier.

• Refunds are issued only after the item has been inspected and confirmed to be in its original condition.

• If the icon has been damaged during return shipping, you will be informed of any restoration costs before the refund is processed.

🔹 Discover More

Browse our complete collection of icons of the Virgin Mary in the corresponding section of our shop.

🔹 Questions?

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us—we will be delighted to assist you.

🔹 What Our Customers Say

Read reviews from our satisfied customers.

🔹 Historical Background of the Icon

The Virgin Mary of Blachernae (also known as Blachernitissa) is one of the oldest and most venerated iconographic representations of the Mother of God, closely associated with the historic Church of Blachernae in Constantinople.

Characteristics of the Icon

In its traditional form, the icon includes several distinctive theological and artistic features:

• The Orans Pose: The Virgin Mary is depicted standing.

• Raised Hands: Her hands are lifted in a gesture of intercession and prayer.

• Christ Emmanuel: On her chest appears a circular medallion depicting the Christ Child (Emmanuel).

• The Platytera: This iconographic type is often identified with the Platytera of the Heavens, symbolizing the Mother of God who bore the Infinite One.

• White Garments: In certain variations, the Virgin is portrayed wearing a white maphorion (veil), emphasizing her purity.

Thank you for visiting our shop! We hope this sacred icon brings peace, love, and God's blessings into your home.