Annunciation to the shepherds c. 1856 - 1857

"Annunciation to the Shepherds" is a pencil sketch by Victor Müller, created between 1856 and 1857. The drawing depicts a scene of the angel Gabriel appearing to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus, with a focus on the angel’s flowing robes. The sketch is a preliminary study for a larger composition and is characterized by its light, delicate lines and the suggestion of movement. This study, now housed in the Städel Museum, offers viewers insight into the artistic process and Müller's early conceptualization of the iconic biblical event.