"Byzantine Mona Lisa" discovered in Istanbul
The unique double-sided post-Byzantine icon of the Virgin of Eleusis (Merciful) has one peculiarity: on its back there is another painted icon from the 14th century
In a church on the Prince's Islands in Istanbul, a unique icon, masterpiece and Byzantine treasure has long awaited discovery.
This unique double-sided post-Byzantine icon of Our Lady of Eleusis (Merciful) has one peculiarity: on its back there is another painted icon from the 14th century, which remained hidden for over a hundred years in a heavy metal box, kept in the Church of Our Lady of Eleusis in Bujukada/Prinkipos.
In the summer of 2021, Venizelos G. Gavrilakis i Vaia A. Karagiani, the founders of VENIS STUDIOS, received an order from the metropolitan Dimitrija Komata, to remove the silver lining that covered the icon of the Virgin for the purpose of conservation. By removing the silver fitting-cover, which dates from 1750, a unique icon of the Virgin of Eleusis from the 16th century was discovered, while by removing the old bronze box on its back, another unique icon from the Byzantine period, the Descent into Hades, which dates from the 14th century, was discovered. century.
The icon, badly damaged by centuries, wars and human negligence, underwent a detailed physical and chemical examination in cooperation with the Greek foundation "Ormilia" and its scientific director, Georgios Karagiannis. This examination aimed to study the layering of the icon, identify the pigments, gold leaf and other materials from which it was made. The study aimed to analyze the technique, the pigments used and confirm the exact dating of the icon.
In addition, the conservation team conducted specialized photographic and conservation tests in order to carry out the immediate conservation treatment and subsequent appropriate conservation-restoration works necessary to preserve the icon.
After removing the silver covering, a treasure trove of coins and silver votive offerings of the faithful was discovered. These precious things were left behind by pious individuals and pilgrims who sought consolation and divine intervention through prayers to the holy icon, seeking blessings for their health and the well-being of their loved ones. Of particular importance was the discovery of an exceptional gold coin belonging to the Sultan Mahmud II, who ruled from 1808 to 1839.
( News culture )