🕊️ Bethlehem Mother of God Icon – The Smiling Virgin
This handmade Orthodox icon is a heartfelt reproduction of the Bethlehem Mother of God, one of the most emotionally expressive and unique Marian icons in the Orthodox world. Painted in 19th-century Russia and gifted by the Romanov royal family to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the icon remains in the Holy Land — venerated by pilgrims from around the world.
Its most remarkable feature is the gentle, smiling face of the Virgin Mary, who usually appears solemn or sorrowful in iconography. In this image, she smiles tenderly at the Christ Child, who holds a globus cruciger (symbol of divine kingship) and blesses with His right hand.
This icon belongs to the Hodegetria type — “She Who Shows the Way” — where the Theotokos directs the viewer toward Christ, the true Light and Savior.
📜 Historical & Spiritual Significance:
Created in the 1840s, likely as a diplomatic and spiritual gift to Orthodox Christians of the Holy Land
Placed near the Nativity Grotto in Bethlehem — the birthplace of Jesus
Associated with prayers for fertility, joy in the home, peace, and divine comfort
Especially venerated on August 28 (15), the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos
Mary’s smile is a sign of God’s loving presence, a silent message to all who suffer:
"Do not fear — God's love is with you."
✨ Why You'll Love It:
Rare image of smiling Virgin Mary, full of joy and maternal grace
Handmade reproduction of a historic icon from the Holy Land
Printed with mineral-based pigments for color stability and sacred texture
Coated with natural wax for a soft, durable, traditional feel
Pre-installed metal hook for easy wall mounting
Handmade in Portugal with deep reverence and care
📏 Available Sizes:
12 x 15 cm (5” x 6”)
23 x 30 cm (9” x 12”)
30 x 39 cm (12” x 15”) Thickness: 1.6 cm (0.6")
🙏 Perfect For:
Orthodox Christian families and homes
Gifts for mothers, baptisms, and house blessings
Women seeking comfort, fertility, or family healing
Holy Land pilgrimage keepsakes
Spiritual art collectors and icon lovers
📦 Shipping & Packaging:
Ships worldwide from Portugal
Secure packaging ensures safe delivery
Blessed and carefully inspected before shipment
Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth
🕯️ Let the tender smile of the Theotokos bring peace, joy, and heavenly comfort into your home. A sacred reminder of the miracle of God With Us.
