The Announcement to the Shepherds

Colonia employs strong chiaroscuro, allowing a single light source from the heavens to illuminate the figures and cast deep shadows across their faces and garments. The dramatic contrast heightens the emotional intensity, while the muted palette of the stormy sky and the red cloak of a central figure draw the viewer’s eye toward the focal point.

Painted at the turn of the 18th century, the work reflects the Dutch‑Baroque tradition that Colonia inherited from his father, Isaac. It entered the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, through acquisition in the early 20th century, where it has remained on public display as an example of religious narrative painting from the period.