Artwork
The Annunciation
The Annunciation is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Jean Hey. It dates from 1492 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Annunciation is an oil on panel painting depicting the moment when the archangel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will bear Jesus. Although it appears complete, the painting is a fragment of a larger altarpiece, with a figure originally present on the left edge that was later removed.
Subject & Meaning
The scene represents a pivotal moment in Christian theology, the conception of Jesus. It is thematically linked to another panel, now in the National Gallery, London, which depicts the meeting of Mary's parents, representing Mary's own conception.
Technique & Style
The painting's sumptuous palette and crisp forms reflect the influence of Franco-Flemish manuscript painting. The use of ultramarine pigment and glazing techniques contribute to its rich visual quality. Architectural elements, such as the barrel vault and marble column, demonstrate an emerging interest in classical antiquity.
History & Provenance
The Annunciation was likely part of an altarpiece created by Jean Hey, court painter to Pierre II, Duke of Bourbon, and Anne of France. The altarpiece may have been commissioned to commemorate the birth of their child. The left wing, now in London, has been linked to this painting through shared thematic and technical elements.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Hey (or Jean Hay) (fl. c. 1475 – c. 1505), now generally identified with the artist formerly known as the Master of Moulins, was an Early Netherlandish painter working in France and the Duchy of Burgundy, and…
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