Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “O All-Praised Mother”

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “O All-Praised Mother”

Original of 1798 | Private Collection
With Guardian Angel, Venerable Paraskeva, Martyr John, and Martyr Daria
Museum Quality | Rare Historic Image

This exquisite Orthodox icon depicts the Most Holy Theotokos under the title “O All-Praised Mother” — one of the deeply venerated Marian images glorifying Her maternal love, heavenly intercession, and universal praise in the Church.

The original icon was created in 1798 and is now preserved in a private collection as a precious example of late 18th-century Russian iconography. It represents a harmonious union of ancient canonical tradition and refined artistic craftsmanship characteristic of this flourishing period in Russian sacred art.

On the borders of the icon are depicted the patron saints of the family for whom the icon was originally commissioned:

• Guardian Angel
• Venerable Paraskeva
• Holy Martyr John
• Holy Martyr Daria of Rome

The Meaning of the Title: “O All-Praised Mother”

The name of the icon comes from the opening words of an ancient church hymn addressed to the Mother of God:

“O All-Praised Mother, who gavest birth to the Holiest Word of all the saints! Receiving this present offering, deliver all from every misfortune, and rescue from future torment those who cry to thee: Alleluia!”

These words express both praise and supplication — glorifying the Theotokos for bearing the Savior of the world and imploring her maternal protection for all who turn to her in faith.

The title emphasizes her universal glorification in the Church and her compassionate intercession for humanity.

The Saints Depicted on the Borders

The Guardian Angel

Every Christian receives a Guardian Angel at baptism. The presence of the Angel on this icon symbolizes divine protection, guidance, and unseen spiritual assistance throughout earthly life.

Venerable Paraskeva

Likely representing either Saint Paraskeva of Serbia or Saint Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, she is one of the most beloved female saints in Orthodoxy. Known for asceticism, mercy, and miracles, she is often invoked for family needs, women’s concerns, and spiritual strength.

Holy Martyr John

Possibly one of several martyrs bearing this name (such as John the Warrior or John of Suceava), he represents steadfast confession of Christ and courage in suffering.

Holy Martyr Daria of Rome († 283)

Saint Daria suffered martyrdom together with her husband, Saint Chrysanthus, during the persecutions under Emperor Numerian. She is honored for her purity, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Together, these saints form a heavenly circle of intercessors surrounding the Mother of God and protecting the family represented in the icon.

Spiritual Significance

The icon “O All-Praised Mother” reminds believers that:

• The Theotokos is glorified above all creation as the Mother of God
• She intercedes for families and protects Christian homes
• Heaven and earth are united in prayer
• Each believer has personal heavenly patrons

This image symbolizes the unity of the earthly family with the Heavenly Church.

What Believers Pray For Before This Icon

Orthodox Christians turn to the Mother of God “O All-Praised Mother” for:

• Protection and blessing of the entire family
• Deliverance from dangers and misfortunes
• Preservation from future judgment and spiritual harm
• Strengthening of faith and piety
• Assistance of one’s Guardian Angel
• Peace, harmony, and love within the home
• Intercession of patron saints

It is especially meaningful as a family icon, intended for the home prayer corner.

Artistic and Historical Value

Created in 1798, the original icon belongs to a period when Russian iconography combined ancient spiritual depth with refined stylistic development. The composition, delicate faces, and harmonious color palette reflect the devotional character of late 18th-century sacred art.

Icons of this type were often commissioned for specific families, making each example deeply personal and spiritually intimate.

Prayer Before the Icon

“O All-Praised Mother, who gavest birth to the Holiest Word! Receive our humble prayer, deliver us from every misfortune and from future torment, and save our souls through thy intercessions before the Lord. Amen.”

May the Most Holy Theotokos “O All-Praised Mother” keep your home and family under her loving maternal protection. 🕯️

🖼 Product Features
• Printed on durable MDF wood panel
• Mineral pigment inks for long-lasting color
• Sealed with protective beeswax finish
• Ready to hang — includes mounted metal hook
• Handmade by Orthodox Christian artisans
• Lightweight yet solid: board thickness is 1.6 cm (0.6")

📏 Available Sizes
• 12 x 15 cm (5” x 6”)
• 23 x 30 cm (9” x 12”)
• 30 x 39 cm (12” x 15”)

🎁 Perfect for
• Orthodox Christian gifts
• Spiritual housewarming gifts
• Prayer corners and devotional altars
• Baptisms, name days, and feast days

🌍 Ships worldwide with secure packaging

Our icons are made by Orthodox craftsmen in Portugal.
We hope it will be a good gift for you and your loved ones.

This icon is available on Etsy and eBay.