The Angel of the Annunciation c. 1330

"The Angel of the Annunciation" is a tempera on wood panel painting created by Simone Martini around 1330. The painting depicts the angel Gabriel, known as the Angel of the Annunciation, kneeling with an olive branch in hand. The angel's pose is elegant and graceful, mirroring the ornate gold background with decorative patterns. This small-scale piece showcases Martini's mastery of line and color, a hallmark of the Sienese School of painting. It exemplifies the style of the 14th century, characterized by a focus on religious themes, ornate detail, and a sense of spirituality.