Archangel Gabriel 1404 - 1407

Gherardo Starnina’s *Archangel Gabriel* (1404-1407) showcases the artist's skill in depicting a delicate yet powerful angel. The painting, housed in the Städel Museum, portrays Gabriel in prayerful posture, his wings outstretched, and a halo crowning his head. This artwork, a testament to Starnina’s mastery of the Early Renaissance style, exemplifies the transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance through the combination of religious imagery and realistic anatomical detail. The use of gold leaf in the background enhances the celestial aura of the subject, creating a compelling portrayal of the divine messenger.