Nioras Silver Art (Greek) - Theotokos Hagiosoritissa Icon Panel

Overview
Greek Orthodox icon depicting the Theotokos in the Hagiosoritissa type, shown without the Christ Child and holding a scroll, symbolizing her role as intercessor. The image is executed with a repoussé and chased 950 silver riza over a painted substrate, with the face rendered in traditional hand-painted technique. Style: Byzantine revival, based on Middle Byzantine devotional models.

Dating / Background
Produced by Nioras Silver Art, Greece, a workshop active since 1964 specializing in Byzantine-inspired ecclesiastical objects. The Hagiosoritissa type originates in Constantinople and is associated with the Blachernae shrine, where the Virgin was venerated as an intercessor for the faithful. The accompanying label confirms 950 purity silver and traditional hand-painted hagiography. This example represents a modern continuation of that long-standing iconographic tradition.

Why Collect
The Hagiosoritissa is a historically significant and less commonly encountered Marian type compared to Hodegetria or Eleousa, making it of particular interest to collectors of Orthodox iconography. The combination of high-purity silver, repoussé craftsmanship, and traditional painted detail enhances both its artistic and material appeal. It serves equally as a devotional object and as a representative example of enduring Byzantine visual culture.

Dimensions (inches)
Height: 10.25 | Width: 8 | Depth: 1.5

Condition
Very good overall. Light surface wear consistent with handling. Minor abrasions to silver under close inspection. Frame with light edge wear. No significant dents or losses observed. Painted areas intact.

Reference
Hagiosoritissa type icons associated with the Blachernae tradition, Constantinople; Byzantine use of silver revetments (riza/oklad) in devotional imagery.