The Annunciation
March 25th is the Feast of the Annunciation in the Catholic Church. It is the announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit to be called Jesus. It was an extremely popular subject to depict in Counter-Reformation times. Today we show 4 versions of the Annunciation. Two from Caracci's school and 2 from Caravaggio's "School".
The Annunciation(c1603) by Ludovico Carracci - the use of light and color in this piece reflects Carracci's mastery of the Baroque style, blending naturalism with a sense of divine presence. @museidistradanuovagenova
The Annunciation(1629) by Guido Reni - Reni's take amps up both the naturalism and divine presence by giving the Angel a more natural human form, but also making the light of the Holy Spirit even brighter and letting it take center stage in the composition. @museelouvre
The Annunciation (1608) by Caravaggio displays his trademark naturalism in the exposed arm and leg of the angel and does not include any cherubs or doves, but Mary's expression still conveys the divinity and magnitude of the moment. @museebeauxartsnancy
The Annunciation (1630) by Artemisia Gentileschi shows the Angel in sumptuous robes on bended knee preparing Mary for the Holy Spirit that has broken through the darkness. Artemisia chooses to include some cherubim and the Dove to add to the impact of the moment.
