"Mother of God of Kazan". This essential Russian icon is historically notable through several miracles and played a major historical role in Russia's destiny. The original icon was carried by Prince Dmitry Pozharsky (1577-1642) into battle. It made its apparition in 1579 in Kazan, the capital of a Tartar khanate, where, at the time, half the city was being destroyed by fire. A special church was built in Kazan in 1679, but the icon took up residence in Moscow. had been kept in Moscow. The icon then moved to St. Petersburg where it was installed in the Kazan Cathedral on Nevskii Prospect in the center of the city. It also took on a gold "riza" (a metal cover, also known as its vestment) which was inlaid with emeralds and diamonds.

The face of the Blessed Mother is grave, yet displays feminine sweetness and saddened tenderness. Her head bows in the direction of Christ, represented standing upright and facing the viewer, bestowing a blessing. His left hand is hidden.

Icon with stand measures 9". Painted on wood and signed by the artist at Sergiev-Posad, 2011. Matching wooden egg stand, gold cross on the back.