The Virgin Glykophilousa

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Virgin Glykophilousa", originally brought to life by the talented Cretan school. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Cretan school and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Virgin Glykophilousa is a notable icon attributed to the Cretan School, a significant movement in post-Byzantine art that flourished on the island of Crete during the Venetian rule from the 15th to the 17th centuries. This school is renowned for its unique blend of Byzantine and Western artistic influences, which is evident in the iconography and stylistic elements of its works.

The term "Glykophilousa" translates to "Sweet-Kissing" in Greek, referring to a specific type of iconography depicting the Virgin Mary tenderly holding and affectionately touching cheeks with the Christ Child. This representation emphasizes the human and compassionate aspects of the Virgin, highlighting her role as a nurturing mother. The icon is characterized by its delicate portrayal of emotion and the intimate bond between mother and child, which is a hallmark of the Cretan School's approach to religious art.

The Cretan School artists were adept at incorporating elements from the Italian Renaissance, such as perspective and naturalism, while maintaining the spiritual and symbolic depth of Byzantine tradition. This synthesis is evident in The Virgin Glykophilousa, where the figures are rendered with a sense of volume and depth, yet retain the iconic flatness and stylization typical of Byzantine art.

The use of color in the icon is also significant, with rich, vibrant hues that enhance the spiritual and emotional impact of the image. Gold leaf is often used in the background, symbolizing the divine light and creating a sense of otherworldliness.

While specific details about the individual artist or the exact date of creation for The Virgin Glykophilousa may not be well-documented, the icon remains an important example of the Cretan School's contribution to the evolution of religious art. It reflects the cultural and artistic exchanges between East and West during this period and continues to be admired for its beauty and spiritual depth.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.