Theotokos and Child Enthroned: Byzantine Style Mosaic Masterpiece

This mosaic is a classic depiction of the Virgin Mary (Theotokos) holding the infant Jesus, rendered in a style strongly suggestive of Byzantine iconography. Mary is shown in a dark, almost black, draped mantle with gold trim, and a dark head covering. Her face is solemn, and she gazes slightly to the side. She holds the Christ Child on her left arm. Jesus is depicted with a mature face, a halo with a cross motif, and is dressed in gold robes. His right hand is raised in blessing, and his left hand holds a scroll or book. Both figures have halos, and Greek abbreviations identifying "Mother of God" (MP ΘY) and "Jesus Christ" (IC XC) are present in the gold background. The background is primarily composed of shimmering gold tesserae, with a red and gold border. The style is formal and symbolic, emphasizing the divine nature of the subjects.