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The Annunciation

1440–50
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 635

Locating the Annunciation in a private chamber, this small panel is strongly influenced by early Netherlandish painting. However, it shows the biblical event as a legal transaction: instead of addressing the Virgin, the Archangel delivers his message in a document with three wax seals, symbolizing the Holy Trinity. The document substantiates the truth of Gabriel’s Annunciation and is proof of the new covenant between God and humanity. Mary crosses her hands over her heart in acquiescence.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The Annunciation
  • Artist: South German (Bavarian?) Painter (1440–50)
  • Date: 1440–50
  • Medium: Oil and gold on linden
  • Dimensions: 6 5/16 x 4 1/8 in. (16 x 10.5 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Gift of Julie and Lawrence Salander, in honor of Keith Christiansen, 2005
  • Object Number: 2005.103
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

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Portrait of a Man in Royal Livery
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Madonna and Child, Duccio di Buoninsegna Italian, Tempera and gold on wood
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Cornetto in A, Ivory, gilt ferrule, German
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Katharina Merian, Hans Brosamer German, Oil, gold, and white metal on linden
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