Mother of God Virgin Mary the Theotokos "Gerontissa", “Abbess” or “Elderly Lady”. Wooden orthodox icon

Wooden Icon of the Mother of God Gerontissa

A Blessed Protector of the Elderly and the Perishing

The Gerontissa icon — whose name means “Abbess” or “Elderly Lady” — of the Theotokos is a wonderworking image long venerated at the Pantokratoros Monastery on Mount Athos. According to tradition, when the monastery was to be built, the icon repeatedly disappeared from the original construction site and reappeared at the location where the Mother of God willed the holy monastery should stand. From this miraculous act the place was sanctified.

Through many centuries, the Gerontissa icon has shown itself to be a refuge for souls in extremity. When the abbot, on his deathbed, requested Communion but was denied by the priest, this icon intervened: it commanded the priest to give Communion immediately in a strong voice, enabling the abbot to depart in peace. 

In another miracle during a time of severe famine, the monks saw oil mysteriously overflowing in empty storage vessels overnight. All present knew that the Theotokos had provided for them, and the overflowing oil was added to the icon’s imagery in gratitude.

Throughout its history, Gerontissa has been a source of consolation and healing: for the elderly near their end, for those suffering illness, for childless couples, for women in labor, and for many who faced danger or spiritual trial. It serves as a reminder that the Queen of Heaven gazes upon her children with compassion, that even in the darkest moments God’s mercy is near.

🖼 Product Features

Each icon in our workshop is made to last a lifetime and beyond. The image is printed with rich, fade-resistant pigment inks on a premium solid-core wood panel — then hand-finished with a natural beeswax coating that deepens the colors, protects the surface, and gives each piece the warm, reverent quality of a traditionally crafted sacred object. A metal hanging hook is included on the back, so your icon is ready to display the moment it arrives.

• Crafted on a premium wood panel — 1.6 cm (0.6") thick, sturdy yet lightweight
• Fade-resistant pigment print — rich, true-to-life colors that last for generations
• Natural beeswax finish — hand-applied for depth, protection, and a traditional feel
• Ready to hang — metal hook pre-attached on the reverse
• Hand-finished by Orthodox Christian artisans in Portugal

📏 Available Sizes

• Small – 12 x 15 cm (5” x 6”)
• Medium – 23 x 30 cm (9” x 12”)
• Large – 30 x 39 cm (12” x 15”)

🎁 Perfect For

• Meaningful Orthodox Christian gifts
• Housewarming and family blessings
• Prayer corners and devotional spaces
• Baptisms, name days, weddings, and feast days

🌍 Worldwide Delivery

Securely packed and shipped worldwide from Portugal with tracking.

✨ Crafted with Tradition

Each icon is carefully made by Orthodox Christian artisans in Portugal — created to become a lasting blessing for your home or a treasured gift for someone you love.