In the Eastern Orthodox Church Anna and Joachim, the aged parents of the virgin, were venerated as saints, this exquisite icon illustrates numerous scenes from their lives. The central image is of the parents gazing in awe at their newborn daughter, whose glorious future is predicted by a halo of blazing light. This also suggests Mary’s unique birth as the only individual free from original sin. God in heaven presides over this scene, which takes place in a grand palace in the baroque style. In the background, Anna and Joachim are shown meeting before the gates of Jerusalem, while two more scenes from their lives fill the corners. The artist has used a grandiose style heavily influenced by contemporary tastes. The icon glows with deep reds and bright golds, ornate curves and massive architecture. It is at once an illustration of human events, and a testament to ancient faith.