Nativity of the Theotokos Protevangelium of James (@150) September 8 St. Anne, the Mother of the Virgin Mary, reclines on a couch while Mary’s father Joachim stands to the right with hands outstretched presenting his daughter who lies in a crib at the bottom. Those who assisted the birth are seen in the middle of the icon. To the left Joachim and Anne are shown embracing as their human union brought forth the birth of Mary. To the right a kivorion which represents the ‘sky’ or Kingdom of Heaven that is placed over the Holy Table during Liturgy. This seems to honor Mary in a similar fashion as she is the the holy vessel from which Christ will be brought forth as human child in the future. Thus the icon moves from past, present and future.