Annunciatie c. 1728

Laurent Cars created this ‘Annunciation’ print during the 18th century. We observe the angel Gabriel, poised in mid-air, heralding to Mary, her hand raised, which in this context symbolizes divine authority and blessing. The dove descending from above, of course, represents the Holy Spirit, a symbol laden with centuries of theological weight. Consider how this motif has traversed time and space: The raised hand, a gesture of power, echoes in ancient Roman art, where emperors were depicted with a similar authoritative gesture. Yet, here, it is tempered with divine grace. Likewise, the dove appears in various guises across cultures. What was once a symbol of peace in ancient Greece now embodies divine grace and purity in Christian iconography. This image operates on a deeper level, engaging our collective memory. The anticipation of the divine breaking into the mundane, the emotional weight of Mary’s acceptance – it’s all palpable. This isn’t just a scene; it’s a powerful, cyclical return to a foundational moment in Western consciousness, constantly resurfacing with renewed emotional resonance.