Annunciation c. 12th century

Curator: This small ivory plaque, titled "Annunciation," resides here at the Harvard Art Museums. The artist remains unknown. Editor: I find it astonishing how such a weighty scene is captured in a medium that seems so delicate and smooth. The patina hints at countless hands that have treasured this object. Curator: Precisely! Note the composition; the angel Gabriel gestures towards Mary beneath an architectural arch, framed by rhythmic columns. The halos emphasize the figures and offer a glimpse into the divine order represented. Editor: And yet, it’s the very hands-on process that intrigues me—someone meticulously carving away material to reveal this sacred narrative. I wonder about the ivory's origin, the tools employed, and the artisan's daily life. Curator: The piece's formal structure guides the viewer to contemplate the moment of revelation. The lines and forms build towards the divine message. Editor: Ultimately, considering the materials, it provides a tactile connection to the past, reminding us that even ethereal concepts are grounded in labor and physicality. Curator: Indeed, a remarkable synthesis of the sacred and the material. Editor: A lovely piece, offering a unique view into artistic production.