Artwork
Annunciation
Annunciation is an unspecified painting by Arthur Hacker. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Tate Britain.
About this work
Overview
Arthur Hacker’s *Annunciation*, executed circa 1898, presents a tranquil moment centred on a solitary female figure in a garden setting. The composition is modest in scale and resides in the Tate Britain collection, exemplifying the artist’s engagement with religious narrative through a restrained, contemplative visual language.
Subject & Meaning
The work portrays the biblical Annunciation, with the woman—identified as the Virgin Mary—clad in a white robe and veil, standing barefoot among foliage. Her hands are pressed together before her chest, suggesting prayerful acceptance of the divine message, while a simple brown jug rests nearby, hinting at domestic humility.
Technique & Style
Hacker employs chiaroscuro to model the figure, allowing light to fall gently on the veil and robe while deeper shadows define the surrounding garden. The muted palette of blues, greens, and earth tones creates spatial depth, and the delicate rendering of foliage and distant architecture contributes to an atmosphere of quiet reverence.
History & Provenance
Created at the close of the 19th century, the painting entered the public domain through acquisition by Tate Britain, where it remains on display. Its provenance reflects the artist’s reputation within the English classical tradition and the museum’s commitment to preserving works that illustrate Victorian religious art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Arthur Hacker (St Pancras, Middlesex, 25 September 1858 – 12 November 1919 Kensington, London) was an English classical painter.
