Virgin of Vladimir Icon Value Guide

This late 19th-century Russian icon represents the 'Eleusa' or 'Tenderness' style, a deeply venerated image where the Christ Child presses His cheek against the Virgin Mary. As a national symbol of protection for Russia, these hand-painted wooden panels from the 1880-1910 period are highly sought after for their spiritual depth and traditional craftsmanship.

What affects the value of Virgin of Vladimir Icon?

• The preservation of the paint layer and the absence of significant cracking or 'craquelure' in the gesso.
• The quality and coverage of the gold leaf gilding, particularly on the halos and borders.
• The structural integrity of the wooden panel, including the presence of original back slats (shponki) to prevent warping.
• The level of detail in the facial features and the 'tenderness' expression, which dictates the artistic merit of the piece.

How to Identify Virgin of Vladimir Icon?

• Look for the specific Eleusa composition where the Christ Child's left arm is wrapped around the Virgin's neck and their cheeks touch.
• Examine the materials for authentic egg tempera application over a gesso-primed wooden panel typical of the 1880-1910 era.
• Check for the presence of genuine gold leaf highlights on the halos and background, which should show age-appropriate wear or patina.
• Verify the Russian origin through traditional Cyrillic inscriptions identifying the Mother of God.

History of Virgin of Vladimir Icon

The Vladimir Mother of God is one of the most venerated Orthodox icons in the world. The original was sent from Constantinople to Kiev in the 1130s and eventually moved to Vladimir, becoming a national symbol of protection for Russia. This specific style, characterized by the child pressing his cheek against his mother's, emphasizes the 'tenderness' or 'Eleusa' relationship between the divine and humanity.