Feast Day: 3rd June, 6th July, 8th September

The composition follows that of the great icon painted in Constantinople in the late twelfth century and brought to Russia shortly after, since when it has been the chief palladium of the Russian state, protecting the Russian people, delivering them from enemies and performing many miracles. The Virgin's glance varies; sometimes it is down towards her son, as here or sometimes out towards the onlooker.. The composition, in the embrace of the two figures, characterises tenderness and loving-kindness (Greek Eleousa, Russian: Oumileinye).

According to ancient tradition, the original version was painted by St Luke who made a portrait of the Virgin during her lifetime. On seeing it, so the story goes, she said "In this image is my grace and power" and then quoted Luke's gospel ‘All generations shall call me blessed’.