The Annunciation 1511 - 1521

Lucas van Leyden's "The Annunciation" (1511-21) is a masterful engraving that depicts the moment when the Angel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will bear the Son of God. This iconic scene is presented with nuanced detail, including the lily, a symbol of purity, and the dove of the Holy Spirit. The artist's use of hatching and cross-hatching techniques creates a sense of volume and depth, emphasizing the dramatic light emanating from the divine presence. The small scale of the work, measuring only 3 1/2 x 4 3/8 inches, adds to its intimacy and allows for a close examination of the artist's meticulous skill. This engraving, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, remains a testament to van Leyden's ability to translate religious imagery into a captivating and evocative work of art.