Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Sign” (Znamenie),
This sacred icon of the Mother of God “The Sign” was created in 1868 in the icon-painting workshop of Ivan Matveevich Malyshev at the famous Trinity Sergius Lavra, one of the greatest spiritual centers of Orthodox Christianity.
The icon is a beautiful example of 19th-century Russian iconography and reflects the deep theological meaning of the Incarnation of Christ.
Theology of the Icon
The iconography of the Mother of God “The Sign” is based on the prophetic words of Isaiah:
"The Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the Virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Emmanuel." (Isaiah 7:14)
In this icon, the Virgin Mary is depicted in the ancient Orans (praying) posture with uplifted hands, symbolizing her prayer for the entire world. On her chest, within a circular medallion, is the blessing Christ Child Emmanuel — a powerful symbol of the mystery of the Incarnation: the eternal God becoming man within the womb of the Most Pure Virgin.
This iconographic tradition developed in Byzantine Christianity and became especially revered in Russia after the miraculous protection associated with the famous Our Lady of the Sign.
Spiritual Meaning for Believers
For centuries, Orthodox Christians have turned to the Mother of God “The Sign” in prayer for help and protection.
Believers pray before this icon for:
• Protection from enemies, war, and disasters
• Healing from illnesses and spiritual suffering
• Help during pregnancy and childbirth
• Protection of children and family
• Reconciliation and peace between people
• Strengthening faith, hope, and trust in God
According to Church tradition, the original Novgorod icon miraculously saved the city during the Siege of Novgorod 1170, after which the icon became one of the most beloved protectors of the Orthodox faithful.
The feast day of the Mother of God “The Sign” is celebrated on December 10 (November 27, Old Style).
This icon reminds us of the greatest miracle of salvation — that God became man for our redemption. It is a profound symbol of divine mercy, maternal protection, and the intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos for the whole world.
A meaningful icon for a prayer corner, home altar, or as a sacred gift for Orthodox Christians.
🖼 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.
