Annunciatie Possibly 1630 - 1702

This anonymous engraving, titled "Annunciatie," depicts the Annunciation, a key event in Christian tradition. Dating from possibly 1630 to 1702, the scene portrays the moment the angel Gabriel informs the Virgin Mary of her imminent pregnancy with Jesus. The angel's dramatic pose, with a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit hovering above, contrasts with Mary's seated, contemplative figure, reflecting the impact of the news. The intricate details of the room, including a bed, a table, and a book, further emphasize the intimate and momentous nature of this encounter. This etching is a beautiful example of the artistic representation of a fundamental story in religious art, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum.