Theotokos of Nicopeia 

Troparion (Tone 4)
Thou art an impregnable wall and a source of miracles enabling us to subdue enemy attacks, O Mother of God. Wherefore we pray thee grant peace to the world and great mercy to our souls.

Nicopeia, and its similar spellings, means bringer of the victory. It is a Byzantine type that appeared as an independent type of icon in the first half of the 5th century and counts as one of the most loved types. It is the source for at least two Russian variations: Theotokos of the Sign and "Queen of All". The word Nicopeia indicates the place, Constantinople. The Pantocrator Monastery in Constantinople was the guardian of the Icon of the Theotokos of Nicopeia. This holy icon preceded the emperor into battle and is credited with saving the city on several occasions. Looted during the Fourth Crusade, the holy icon now resides in Saint Mark Cathederal in Venice, Italy. All icons of this type share one feature in common: the Mother of God is depicted sitting on a throne. She holds the Christ Child on her lap. The throne symbolizes the royal glory of the Theotokos, who alone is perfect among those born on earth. This icon was painted using the icon at St. Mark’s as its prototype.

This Icon is by the hand of an iconographer who wishes to remain anonymous.

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