Mary demures before the kneeling angel

Annunciation of Mary

Artist: Botticelli

Year: 1489-1490

VM number: 0070

Description: This painting, commissioned for the Church of Cestello, captures the dynamic moment when the angel Gabriel appears to Mary. The angel brings a lily, symbolizing Mary's purity. Mary, who was reading a book, turns toward the angel. Their hands almost meet, the angel bestowing blessing and Mary receiving, in posture of humility.