The Annunciation
Netherlandish, mid-15th century
Silk and metallic threads on linen with "or nué," couching, stem, and overcast stitches
Gift of Lois and Anthony Blumka, in memory of Victoria Blumka, 1990 (1990.330)

In a domestic interior, the Virgin Mary kneels at a prie-dieu on which her prayer book rests. The Archangel Gabriel, at the left, greets her with the announcement of the forthcoming birth of Jesus: "Ave Maria gratia plena dominus tecum" ("Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee," Luke 1:28). Originally part of an altar frontal or a priest's vestment, this embroidery is a fine example of the much admired Netherlandish embroidery with gold.