Artwork

The Archangel Gabriel [middle left panel]

The Archangel Gabriel [middle left panel], by Cosmè Tura, oil, 1475
The Archangel Gabriel [middle left panel], by Cosmè Tura, oil, 1475

The Archangel Gabriel [middle left panel] is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Cosmè Tura. It dates from 1475 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Executed in tempera and distemper on a wooden panel, this work forms part of a larger Annunciation scene.

Cosmè Tura's painting, titled *The Archangel Gabriel*, dates to approximately 1475. Executed in tempera and distemper on a wooden panel, this work forms part of a larger Annunciation scene. It portrays the celestial messenger, Gabriel, in a moment central to Christian narrative. The panel highlights Tura's meticulous approach to detail and his distinctive rendering of religious figures, characteristic of his artistic output during the period.

Subject & Meaning

This panel depicts the Archangel Gabriel, a key figure in the Annunciation, the moment he announces to Mary that she will conceive Jesus. Gabriel is shown in profile, holding a white flower, traditionally a symbol of purity. His elegant attire, featuring a flowing pink robe over a black undershirt, and his serene posture convey a sense of divine grace and solemnity befitting his sacred message within the biblical narrative.

Technique & Style

Tura employed tempera and distemper on panel for this work, a common technique in the 15th century that allowed for precise detail and vibrant color. The medium contributes to the painting's textural quality and depth. The artist rendered Gabriel with a halo and golden, curly hair, set against a subtly graduated blue sky. The figure stands on a stone platform, grounding the celestial being within a defined space.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Cosmè Tura

Artist

Cosmè Tura

Cosmè Tura (1470–1479) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.