The Annunciation to the Shepherds 1599

"The Annunciation to the Shepherds" (1599), an etching by the Dutch artist Jan Saenredam (1565-1607), depicts a scene of heavenly grandeur. The central figure is an angel appearing to the shepherds, who are tending to their flock. Surrounded by a chorus of cherubs, the angel descends from the heavens, radiating a divine light. The shepherds are shown in various states of awe and wonder as they witness this miraculous event. Saenredam masterfully utilizes the dramatic use of light and shadow, adding depth and emotion to the scene, creating a powerful visual representation of the biblical story. This etching, held in the Statens Museum for Kunst, is a fine example of Saenredam's artistic skill and sensitivity to biblical narrative.