The Mother of God of Tenderness (Theotokos of God of Belozersk) 1250

"The Mother of God of Tenderness" (Theotokos of God of Belozersk), a 13th-century Orthodox icon, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. The icon's composition is typical of Byzantine art, with Mary and Jesus positioned frontally and framed by a mandorla (almond-shaped halo). The icon's name references the tenderness expressed through Mary’s gentle embrace of Jesus, and the overall atmosphere of the piece. The icon's bright colors and delicate features convey a sense of devotion and spiritual beauty. Today, it is housed in the Russian Museum, Saint Petersburg.