Mariä Verkündigung, oben Gottvater von Engeln umgeben 

Curator: Look at this stunning chalk drawing, bathed in sanguine hues! It captures "The Annunciation, God the Father Above Surrounded by Angels." It's an intriguing work, attributed to Ciro Ferri, showcasing his Baroque sensibilities. Editor: The red chalk gives it a warmth, almost like looking at a memory. There's a dreamlike quality to the whole scene, particularly the way the figures seem to emerge from the paper. Curator: Exactly! That use of the sanguine medium lends the piece a very evocative, preparatory feel. The composition leads the eye from the divine realm above with God the Father amidst the cherubic choir, down to the earthly plane where Gabriel delivers his message to Mary. Editor: The symbols are just layered! You have the dove representing the Holy Spirit descending, the lilies held by Gabriel which signal Mary's purity, and God the Father, reminiscent of Jupiter Tonans with all his paternal authority. What stories these icons hold! Curator: I love how Ferri captured the very moment of the annunciation—the awe, perhaps even apprehension on Mary’s face is palpable! But look at the lines of the drawing. See the very assured yet fluid chalk strokes to form the bodies of the figures and fabric… almost underpainting for another piece. Editor: It reminds me of the frescoes I've seen, with this initial sketching serving as a roadmap for grander artistic ventures, filled with life and vibrancy. You can imagine it translated into something monumental. But look closely – is it just me, or does Gabriel look a bit like he is delivering an eviction notice, a little stressed! Curator: Well, delivering the word of God comes with its responsibilities I suppose, heh! Jokes aside, this drawing captures a really fascinating, multifaceted event – spiritual, historical, intensely personal – it resonates across time, really. Editor: Yes, it invites us to witness a pivot in faith's grand narrative, and Ferri renders it so intimately. The chalk makes us feel like we're right there. Wonderful glimpse of raw creativity, like witnessing lightning strike on paper!