Annunciation 1450

Filippo Lippi painted this Annunciation in tempera on wood. Dominating this scene are symbols steeped in religious significance: the dove, representing the Holy Spirit, and the lilies, emblematic of Mary’s purity. Note how Lippi positions the angel Gabriel, bearing the sprig of lilies, a motif that echoes through centuries. One can recall the ancient Roman use of the laurel wreath, a symbol of victory and honor, now subtly transformed. The gesture of Mary, a hand raised in a mixture of surprise and acceptance, resonates with classical depictions of orators, a pose that suggests a moment of profound decision. This hand, seemingly a small detail, is charged with the weight of destiny. It echoes in later works, capturing the moment of acceptance. The emotional power here is immense, engaging the viewer on a subconscious level. This cyclical return of symbols, transformed yet familiar, speaks to the enduring power of cultural memory and the complex dance between past and present.