Annunciate Virgin, Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)
The theme of the Annunciation in Christian art has a rich tradition. Artists employed a variety of symbols to evoke the mystery of Mary’s acceptance of God’s invitation to become the Mother of God. Leonardo reveals the Virgin momentarily interrupted during her reading. She registers the angel’s presence in her gesture of greeting. The astounding message that the angel delivers seems not to disturb an atmosphere of calm serenity. Indeed the Virgin’s fingers have not moved from the place in the text that marks the passage she was reading. Tradition taught that Mary was reading the prophet Isaiah : “Behold a Virgin shall conceive and bear a child.” Leonardo bathes the figure of the Virgin and her surroundings in a light that caresses equally skin, stone, plant-life and distant mountain. All creation is enveloped in the stopped moment of God’s in-breaking presence amongst us.
Art Guide Resource
The 2013 Art Guide has been compiled by Claire Renkin, well-known Art Historian and Lecturer at Yarra Theological Union and narrated by Margaret Coffey. Margaret has a background in historical research, journalism, education and broadcasting including at the ABC. Artworks featured © Bridgeman Images.
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