The Annunciation

This painting represents one of the most important moments for Christianity: the instant when the Archangel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will be the mother of the Messiah.

In the 15th century, Friar Roberto Caracciolo of Lecce typified the moments of the Annunciation traditionally represented in Christian art. In this case, the episode of the interrogation is evoked, in which Maria wonders how she can give birth to a child if she is still a virgin. 

The Archangel replies that the responsible for such prodigy is the Holy Spirit. 

With his right hand, the Archangel offers Mary a bouquet of white lilies, symbol of her virginity. 

The left hand of the Archangel points to a dove that represents the Holy Spirit that will descend on Mary. This position of the hand raised with the index extended means “listen carefully”. 

When the Archangel appeared before her, the Virgin was seated reading. Generally, the book represented is that of Isaiah, in which it was prefigured: “Behold, the Virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will name him Emmanuel” (7:14). 

The Virgin is seated on one of the most popular pieces of furniture in New Granada in the 17th century: a friar’s chair. With this detail, the painter inserted part of the particular context in the scene.

The faithful continue to celebrate this event in a feast designated by the Church that is commemorated every March 25th. 

This painting, located on the western wall of the presbyterium of the Santa Clara Museum, is the oldest piece in our collection. In it outstands mannerist characteristics observable in the features and gestures of the characters.