THE VIRGIN KATAPHYGE ( REFUGE )
AND ST. JOHN THE THEOLOGIAN

This icon features standing figures of the Virgin and St. John the Theologian.
It was not customary to depict these two figures together on the same icon,
though they can be found together on either side of the cross in the Crucifixion scene. The unusual subject and the Virgin's pose, Her inclined head resting on Her hand,
make it appear she as though She is caught in a moment of grief.
St. John is depicted as an old men, as he is usually shown as one of the four Evangelists.

The icon by the hand of Janusz Charczuk.
Egg tempera on wood, priming on textile, background
23 K gold leaf. 40.0 x 28.5 cm (15.75 x 11.25 in)
Based on 14th century Bulgarian icon.