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This painting depicts the Virgin Mary receiving news from the Angel Gabriel that she will bear God’s son. This event is known as the Annunciation. Although the Angel Gabriel is not shown (Gabriel is depicted in its pair GMAG 5897), there is the presence of three putti which indicate heavenly contact. But it is the depiction of the Virgin Mary reading a book on a lectern that most clearly represents the Annunciation. This image became popular during the 11th century, emphasizing Mary’s spirituality. Initially it recounted how the Virgin was reading her psalter when the Angel Gabriel appeared, but later on this referred to Mary reading the prophesy: 'And the Lord himself shall give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son.
Title
The Annunciation
Date
1800
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
H 128 x W 92 cm
Accession number
GUELI : GMAG 5896
Acquisition method
bequeathed by Wilfred Carey, 1929
Work type
Painting