Theotokos of Tolga I (Big Theotokos) 1300

The Theotokos of Tolga I, also known as Big Theotokos, was made by Orthodox Icons using tempera on wood. The wood support provides a rigid ground for the carefully applied layers of paint, a process demanding patience and precision. The icon's visual impact arises from the inherent qualities of its materials. The tempera paint, made from pigments mixed with egg yolk, gives a distinctive matte finish and allows for fine detail in the faces and garments. The artists would have worked carefully, building up layers of color to achieve depth and luminosity. This highly refined skill was passed down through generations. The making of icons was not merely a technical exercise, but a spiritual practice, with the creation of each artwork considered an act of devotion. The labor-intensive process reflects a deep commitment to the subject matter, blurring the lines between art and craft. The significance of the work lies as much in its making as in its final form.