“The Annunciation” Spanish School After Murillo Baroque Oil on Canvas c.1640

A vibrantly coloured typically Baroque Spanish work following the great tradition of Murillo . c.1640 “Annunciation”, by BARTOLOMÉ ESTEBAN MURILLO (Seville, 1617-1682) circa 1665-1666,Oil on canvas. (Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla)

Artist unknown. Oil on canvas

In this painting, Annunciation, a theme on which Murillo created several works, the figures appear static, with somewhat theatrical gestures but with little expression in their faces. The harmonious but somewhat muted colouring and the backlighting effect of the luminosity that radiates from the Holy Spirit as a Dove and the ethereal vision of God towards the Virgin Mary. Either side clouds billowing with wind are filled with cherubic winged Angels and putti. The painting plays with the theatrical drama of ‘chiaroscuro’, light contrasting with dark.

In contrast, we find simple objects: the prayer-kneeler, a spray of lilies carried by St. Gabriel, symbolising the purity and virginity of Mary, and the basket with needlework. The painting depicts the white cloth, the shroud and to the right hand side.

The Annunciation was the moment that the Angel Gabriel visited the Virgin Mary to announce she would conceive and become mother of Jesus, Son of God. Gabriel is shown here handing a white lily to the Virgin, interrupting her prayer.

The painting is in delicate country house condition with several historical repairs. Please note the frame is bowed, however the piece props from floor level and is of an imposing scale. The painting could be reframed at request.