The Annunciation 1520

Gerard David's "The Annunciation" (1520) depicts the moment the Angel Gabriel informs the Virgin Mary that she will give birth to Jesus. The painting, now in the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, Germany, exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style with its meticulous detail and realistic portrayal. The scene is set in a domestic interior, with Mary kneeling in prayer, her hands clasped to her chest. Above her, a white dove, representing the Holy Spirit, descends from the heavens. The angel, kneeling and gesturing with his hand, is depicted with dramatic realism. David’s detailed depiction of the scene, with a focus on realistic figures and a strong sense of space, was typical of the Northern Renaissance.