Annunciation with Beato Bernardo Tolomei di Siena 1800 - 1900

This drawing depicts the Annunciation with Beato Bernardo Tolomei di Siena. We see the Angel Gabriel offering the Virgin Mary a lily, symbolising purity and divine favour, while Mary sits, book in hand, representing her piety and studiousness. The gesture of Mary placing her hand on her chest is particularly evocative. This motif, resonant with humility and acceptance, echoes across centuries, appearing in various forms in both religious and secular art. Think of similar gestures in depictions of Roman emperors receiving tribute – a subtle shift from power to grace. This echoes a deep, subconscious understanding of reverence and reception. The emotional power lies in the delicate balance between awe and vulnerability, engaging viewers on a profound level. This symbol represents both acceptance and apprehension, resonating in the collective memory of humanity's encounters with the divine.