The image of the Mother of God in modern iconography on the example of Tambov iconography

The historical aspects of the development of the image of the Holy Mother of God, from the first images to the appearance of the iconographic canon, are examined. Iconographic examples of the development of the image of the Mother of God in different historical periods are presented. The axiological essence of the image of the Theotokos in modern times is defined. The stages of development of the Tambov iconographers’ association “To the Light” are described. Some of their exhibition projects are listed. Some of the icons of the Mother of God, participating in the 2022 exhibition “The zealous intercessor of the Christian kind” are described. It was concluded that any icon of the Theotokos has a special context, which the viewer must be able to read. This ability does not come instantly, requiring a long experience in studying the basics of iconography and a considerable amount of visual experience, which can be developed at similar exhibitions.