The Annunciation 1460

Piero della Francesca painted The Annunciation in tempera on wood, a technique demanding patience and precision. The angel Gabriel and Mary occupy an architectural space, whose cool marble columns recede in perfect perspective. Della Francesca’s skill with pigment is evident here. Observe how he builds up color through thin layers of paint, achieving luminosity and subtle gradations of tone, from the blues of Mary’s mantle to the pink of her dress. The artist’s meticulous approach mirrors the period's emphasis on craft guilds and specialized labor. The grinding of pigments, the careful preparation of the wood panel, and the delicate application of paint each required expertise. By emphasizing these processes, we recognize that painting isn't just about divine inspiration, but skilled work. Recognizing craft in fine art enriches our understanding of both.