Verkondiging aan Maria 1705 - 1754

Jacob de Wit created this pen and brown ink drawing called ‘Annunciation to Mary’ in the Netherlands, sometime between 1710 and 1754. De Wit, active during the Dutch Golden Age, was known for his ceiling paintings and theatrical, often illusionistic, depictions of religious and mythological scenes. Here, the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive and bear a son, Jesus. The image, rendered with loose and energetic lines, captures the drama of the divine encounter. The angel's dynamic pose contrasts with Mary's posture of humility, reflecting the religious values of the time. To truly understand this work, it is essential to consider the religious climate of the Dutch Republic and the role of the church. De Wit's artistic choices, such as the emotional intensity and the use of dramatic composition, reflect his engagement with the social and religious expectations of his patrons and audience. Studying the historical context and artistic conventions of the period helps us appreciate the social significance embedded in this seemingly straightforward religious scene.