The Virgin of the Annunciation

The Virgin leans humbly forward as the dove of the Holy Spirit approaches from above. The jewel-like tones of her dress stand out against the neutral background, while golden highlights play across her bodice and hair. The angel Gabriel perhaps appeared opposite her in a pendant canvas.

Born in the town of Morazzone in northern Italy, Pierfrancesco Mazzucchelli trained in Rome, in part with the Mannerist painter Cavaliere d'Arpino. Upon his return to Lombardy, Morazzone gained favor for his innovative, Classicizing style. He specialized in religious painting, whether church altarpieces or devotional works for private patrons. In addition to work for the churches of Milan and Como, Morazzone frescoed chapels at the Sacro Monte of Varallo, a pilgrimage site.