Theotokos of the Life-Giving Spring
The Story Behind This Icon
The Icon of the Theotokos of the Life-Giving Spring traces its history to the Fifth Century in Constantinople, built by the Emperor Leo the Great. Before becoming Emperor, Leo walked in a wooded area where he met a blind man asking for water. After an unsuccessful search, Leo heard a voice telling him water was nearby. The voice said "Emperor Leo, go into the deepest part of the woods, and you will find water there. Take some of the cloudy water in your hands and give it to the blind man to drink. Then take the clay and put it on his eyes. Then you shall know who I am.” Leo obeyed these instructions, and the blind man regained his sight. The voice was that of the Theotokos. Leo built a church over the site at his own expense and the water found at the site continued be a source of miracles. Therefore, it was named "The Life-Giving Fountain". This miraculous spring is celebrated on the Friday after Pascha.
The Icon of the Theotokos of the Life-Giving Spring is commemorated on April 4, showing both the miraculous fountain but also a reference to the Theotokos as the source, birthgiver, of Christ the King, echoing His words in John 4:14: "but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
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This icon is made of solid, natural limewood (Tilia) that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background consists of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece. Subtle connecting lines and brush strokes may be visible on the gold leaves and are a testament to the artisan's hand, making each piece entirely unique.
