Breastfeeding in Byzantine icon art

Introduction

The Mary Galaktotrophousa is a representation of the Virgin breastfeeding the infant Jesus.

Materials

The origin of this theme goes back to Antiquity when images of gods feeding humans were considered as an example that should be imitated by human. In the early days of Christianity, the Fathers of the Church recognized on the feature of Mary the ideal exemplary of maternity.

Conclusion

The image of the Virgin breastfeeding the Holy Child, except the theological interpretation of the gesture, underline the fact that breastfeeding represents one of the most substantial gestures in the woman nature.