The Annunciation 1735 - 1787

Pietro Melchiorre Ferrari created this drawing titled 'The Annunciation,' using pen, brown ink, and wash on paper. It is an intimate scene from the late 18th century. The piece depicts the angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she will conceive and bear the son of God. The artist's cultural context infuses the image with elements of both male power and female submission. Gabriel stands tall, extending his hand toward Mary, who is seated and receptive, an open book before her. The dove above symbolizes the Holy Spirit. The traditional narrative underscores themes of divine intervention and female purity, yet the piece also subtly speaks to the societal expectations placed on women during Ferrari's time, where their roles were often confined to piety and motherhood. The artist captures the moment of profound change, inviting us to reflect on the interplay between personal destiny and prescribed gender roles.