The Most Holy Theotokos is especially loved and revered by the Russian people. One of the manifestations of love for the Mother of God has always been the writing of the holy images of the Virgin Mary. On April 16, the Orthodox Church celebrates a special celebration in honor of the icon of the Mother of God "The Fading Color".
The 17th century is considered to be the time when the image of the Mother of God of the "Unfading Color" type appeared. At the moment, there are two versions about where this holy icon was painted. According to one version, an Athos monk is considered the author of the image, others suggest that the icon was painted in Constantinople.
The basis for the creation of the image "Fadeless Color" was the words from the akathist of the Mother of God, in which the Mother of God is compared with unfading and fragrant flowers. Cultural scientists suggest that the type of writing of the icon "Fadeless Color" was formed under the influence of Western iconography.
The presence of flowers is an integral part of all artistic images of the "Fadeless Color" icons. The options may vary. Flowers can be painted along the edges of the icon, or a flourishing rod is depicted, and sometimes the Mother of God and Child stands on a pedestal of flowers.
The clothes of the Mother of God and the infant Christ are most often royal, which indicates the special divine authority of the Lord and the great position of his Most Pure Mother.
Various flowers are depicted on the "Fadeless Color" icons. For example, lilies or roses. Snow-white lilies symbolize the special purity of the Queen of Heaven, and the rose is a universal symbol of love inherent in the Mother of God as the main intercessor before God for people.
Celebrations in honor of the Icon of the Mother of God "Fadeless Color" are held twice a year: on April 16 and January 13.
Before the image of the Mother of God "Fadeless Color" they pray for the preservation of spiritual purity and guidance on the path of spiritual improvement. This icon is especially revered among unmarried girls, since in Russian culture and Orthodox tradition it is customary to pray for a worthy bridegroom just in front of this holy image of the Mother of God.
