Artwork

The Annunciation

The Annunciation, by Alexandre Ubeleski, chalk, 1690
The Annunciation, by Alexandre Ubeleski, chalk, 1690

The Annunciation is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Alexandre Ubeleski. It dates from 1690 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Annunciation is a drawing created by Alexandre Ubeleski around 1690. Executed in red chalk with wash on laid paper, it exemplifies the artist's skill in a specific medium.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a scene from the biblical Annunciation, with the Virgin Mary on the left and an angel on the right. Mary's gentle expression and the angel's outstretched arms convey a sense of reverent interaction.

Technique & Style

Ubeleski employed red chalk to achieve a soft, dreamy effect, with blended lines and shading creating depth and texture. The warm, golden background fosters an atmosphere of intimacy and contemplation, characteristic of Baroque art's use of dramatic lighting and emotive expression.

History & Provenance

Alexandre Ubeleski, trained under Charles Lebrun and educated in Rome, was a member of both the Roman and French Academies. He worked under royal patronage in Paris after his return from Italy, indicating a level of professional success and recognition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alexandre Ubeleski

Artist

Alexandre Ubeleski

Alexandre Ubeleski (sometimes Ubelesqui or Ubielesqui; 1649–1718) was a French painter.

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