Artwork
Angel of Annunciation
Angel of Annunciation is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Gerard David. It dates from 1506 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1506 by the Early Netherlandish painter Gerard David, this oil painting portrays a single angelic figure against a dark backdrop. The work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance’s attention to detail and luminous color, and it is currently housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on an angel with expansive white wings and a long, flowing robe. The figure holds a scepter in one hand while the other points upward, suggesting a divine message or proclamation, a visual reference to the biblical Annunciation narrative.
Technique & Style
David employs oil paint to achieve rich, saturated hues, notably the light‑blue robe edged in red and the bright white of the wings. The contrast between the illuminated figure and the surrounding darkness highlights his skill in rendering texture and depth, hallmarks of the Northern Renaissance palette.
History & Provenance
The painting was completed in the early sixteenth century and has remained in the public domain as part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s holdings. Its provenance traces back to the museum’s acquisition records, confirming its attribution to David and its placement within the museum’s European paintings collection.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Gerard David (c. 1460 – 13 August 1523) was an Early Netherlandish painter and manuscript illuminator known for his brilliant use of color. Only a bare outline of his life survives, although some facts are known. He may…
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Christ Carrying the Cross, with the Crucifixion; The Resurrection, with the Pilgrims of Emmaus
The Crucifixion
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt![The Saint Anne Altarpiece: Saint Anne with the Virgin and Child [middle panel], by Gerard David](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/gerard-david--the-saint-anne-altarpiece-saint-anne-with-the-virgin-and-chi--781e919f9012a004-w320.webp)
The Saint Anne Altarpiece: Saint Anne with the Virgin and Child [middle panel]
The Nativity
