Hi Aaron,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Our Lady of Vladimir (Russian: Владимирская икона Божией Матери, "Vladimirskaya Ikona Bozhiei Materi") is one of the most revered icons in Russian Orthodoxy and a national symbol of the spiritual and cultural heritage of Russia. Known as a miracle-working icon, it holds a central place in the Russian Orthodox Church and the history of Russia.

The icon is believed to have been created in Constantinople around the 11th or 12th century, attributed to the hand of Saint Luke the Evangelist according to tradition. It follows the Eleusa (Tenderness) style, where the Christ Child is depicted pressing His cheek against the Theotokos, emphasizing the tender bond between Mother and Son.

The icon represents the Theotokos as the protector and intercessor of Russia.
It has been credited with saving the Russian people from numerous invasions and disasters. The icon has feast days commemorating key historical events tied to its intercessions:
May 21 (June 3) – In memory of its arrival in Vladimir.
August 26 (September 8) – To honor its role in saving Moscow from Tamerlane.
June 23 (July 6) – Commemorating its transfer to Moscow.

The Eleusa style emphasizes the humanity and divinity of Christ and the compassionate role of the Theotokos in the salvation of humanity. It's serene and tender expression inspires deep devotion and comfort among the faithful.

The label on the back also identifies this as a 20th Century copy of a Byzantine-era (330 CE to 1453 CE) icon. While I'm not finding any record of the Clarte workshop, comparably sized 20th Century Our Lady of Vladimir icon replicas usually sell for between $100-150

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage copy of a Russian Our Lady of Vladimir Icon
Made by Clarte, mid 20th Century
The bust-length figure of Theotokos holding the Christ Child shown pressing His cheek against her, in a repousse and pierced parcel gilt silver oklad within an ebonized frame. Labeled on the reverse.
10 by 7-1/2 inches
CONDITION: This icon appears to be in generally good condition.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$100-150*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia