Moscow Akathistos

The Akathistos to the Theotokos, a title for the Virgin Mary in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, holds great historical importance. Celebrated for military victories attributed to the Virgin Mary’s intervention, this hymn is broken into twenty-four stanzas, each illustrated in alphabetical acrostic initials. The manuscript’s miniatures and initials accompany and celebrate each hymn stanza, representing a unique testament to this beloved prayer.

Crafted in Greek calligraphy, the Moscow Akathistos showcases twenty-three miniatures and figural initials illustrating the hymn. Its adornments include intricate animal figures and vegetal motifs set against burnished gold grounds, framed by exquisitely detailed borders. The manuscript’s creation process occurred in three stages, revealing annotations, layout changes, and decorative elements, emphasizing its meticulous construction.

The manuscript is attributed to Hieromonk Joasaph, a leading figure in the renowned Hodegon Scriptorium, a prominent monastery specializing in luxury illuminated manuscripts. Joasaph’s script, known as Hodegonstil, was characterized by legibility and clarity, favored for its absence of abbreviations. While undated, experts suggest the manuscript originates from Joasaph’s final phase before his death in 1406, placing it at the end of the 14th century.

Restored in Italy during the 15th century by John Rhosos, a Greek copyist, the manuscript bears indications of Italian ownership before returning to Greece. It made its way from Mount Athos as a gift to Czar Alexis Mikhailovič in the 17th century. The manuscript’s binding, likely predating the 16th century, consists of wooden boards covered in stamped leather, attesting to its complex history and varied ownership.

The facsimile edition of the Moscow Akathistos is complemented by a bookcase for its conservation and a complementary study book made by subject matter experts.

This facsimile is a unique edition of 995 books numbered and authenticated by notarial deed.