The Annunciation 1550 - 1612

Federico Barocci's "The Annunciation" captures a divine encounter between the Angel Gabriel and the Virgin Mary. Observe the lily, a symbol of purity and innocence, offered by the angel. This flower, a visual echo of the scepter of kings, reminds us how symbols travel through time. Similarly, the Virgin's gesture of acceptance, with her open palm, is a motif that has echoed through the ages. It recalls gestures of supplication and surrender found in ancient Roman art. The Annunciation is not merely a depiction of a religious event; it is a mirror reflecting humanity's collective emotional experiences. In each brushstroke, we perceive a profound sense of awe and emotional impact of this holy encounter. It is this emotional resonance that ensures its continued relevance through ages, evolving and resurfacing in new contexts.