Glykophilousa can be literally translated as "She who embraces gently". In the Glykophilousa, the Virgin Mother caresses the Child.

While the Hodigitria emphasizes the divinity of the Christ Child, this icon focuses on His human nature. Jesus focuses His attention on His mother, she continues to gaze at the onlooker. She bends her head toward the Child, and the Mother and Childís faces touch. Jesus embraces His mother with at least one hand, while the other may hold a scroll.

The Theotokos is pensive as she envisions Christís suffering The Virginís pain and compassion for her Child become a universal anguish for all those who suffer in a profane world. The expression is not one of meek suffering, but rather profound compassion.

For more information about the prototype:

Glykophilousa at the Monastery of Philotheou

PAnagia @ Wikipedia