An antique Russian Orthodox hand painted entailed The Intercession of the Theotokos, or the Protection of Our Most Holy Lady Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. Tempera and gold on a wooden panel. The icon depicts in its upper part the Virgin Mary surrounded by a luminous aureole. She holds in her outstretched arms a veil, which symbolizes the protection of her intercession. To either side of her stand numerous saints and angels: the apostles, John the Baptist, St. Nicholas of Myra, etc. Below, center, are St. Romanos the Melodist and his choir attended by the Emperor Leo the Wise together with the Empress and the Patriarch of Constantinople. Dates to the 19th century. Antique Russian Orthodox Icons And Religious Collectibles.