The Annunciation
The Annunciation, a fundamental theme of the Christian religion, is the incarnation of Christ in Mary's womb. This moment marks a key moment in the saving action and redemption of humanity, culminating with the death, resurrection and second coming of Jesus. The Gospels, with other variations in the apocryphal gospels, is the basis for the iconographic elaboration of the episode. The essential concept is the encounter between the human and divine.
The Gospel of Luke
The episode is narrated in the Gospel of Luke (1, 26-38). The Archangel Gabriel was sent by God to the city of Nazareth to visit a virgin named Mary. She was Joseph's promised bride. Gabriel appears to Mary saying "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you". He announces that she will conceive a son named Jesus according to the Lord’s will, who "will be great and called the Son of the Most High". Mary responds with surprise and astonishment, given she has never known a man, The archangel replies "the Holy Spirit will come upon you ...the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God ... nothing is impossible for God". The Virgin thus declares herself to be the handmaiden of the Lord, accepting his will.
Mary's Reaction
The scene, often depicted within the Virgin's home or in an outside space, is generally comprised of two visual aspects that juxtapose the dynamic space of the angel from the more intimate space of Mary, The Virgin is often represented with her hands crossed upon her chest, signaling both surprise and humility. This gesture communicates the inner movements of her soul that course through her body. Her reactions range from confusion to perturbation, culminating in her awareness and acceptance of God’s will.
Iconografic Elements
Over the centuries, the iconographic elements that characterize the scene have remained the same. They are the lily, the Holy Spirit and a prayer book. Sometimes sewing instruments are added as well.
The Annunciation (1630) by Artemisia GentileschiMuseo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
The Holy Spirit, represented in the form of a dove accompanied by brilliant rays of light, indicate the outpouring of the divine will upon Mary.
The Annunciation (1587) by Scipione PulzoneMuseo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
The lily that Gabriel presents to Mary is a symbol of purity, indicating the sanctity of the Virgin's womb.
The Annunciation (1596-97) by Francesco CuriaMuseo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
The bookstand surmounted by an open prayer book is a sign of Mary's devotion to the Lord.
The Annunciation (ca. 1555-60) by Girolamo Mazzola BedoliMuseo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
Objects related to domestic activities, such as sewing intstruments, are also sometimes present. According to an apocryphal account, the Virgin was occupied with sewing a purple veil for the Temple at the moment of the Annunciation.
The Annunciation (1596-97) by Francesco CuriaMuseo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
The Annunciation is thus a common subject in the history of art, depicting a pivotal moment within the Christian story, presenting viewers with images of both poise and grace.
Curated by Francesca Santamaria
Thanks to Alessandra Rullo
