An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Archangel Gabriel; The Virgin AnnunciateGerard David
Netherlandish, Oudewater ca. 1455–1523 Bruges
ca. 1510
Left wing: 34 1/2 x 11 5/8 in. (87.7 x 29.5 cm), painted surface 34 x 11 in. (86.4 x 27.9 cm); right wing: 34 1/2 x 11 3/4 in. (87.6 x 30 cm), painted surface 34 x 11 1/8 in. (86.4 x 28.3 cm)
Triptych panels
Oil on oak panel
Robert Lehman Collection
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
In Gerard David's artwork, "Archangel Gabriel; The Virgin Annunciate," we witness a sacred moment full of serene grace. On the left, the Archangel Gabriel stands in a gentle pose, with soft, flowing robes and delicate wings that expand outward, symbolizing his divine nature. His expression is calm, as he gestures with one hand, conveying an important message.
On the right, the Virgin Mary responds to Gabriel with a modest yet thoughtful demeanor. Clad in simple, flowing attire, her hands are raised in a gesture of acceptance and contemplation, embodying both humility and strength. The dove, a symbol of the Holy Spirit, hovers above, adding a layer of tranquility to the scene.
The use of muted colors and soft lighting enhances the peaceful atmosphere, while the architectural elements create a sense of depth and sanctuary. The figures are skillfully painted, with attention to detail that draws the viewer’s eye. This artwork captures a pivotal moment of faith and calmness, inviting us to reflect on the beauty of divine communication.
About the artist
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. The Museum lives in two iconic sites in New York City—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. Millions of people also take part in The Met experience online.Since its founding in 1870, The Met has always aspired to be more than a treasury of rare and beautiful objects. Every day, art comes alive in the Museum's galleries and through its exhibitions and events, revealing new ideas and unexpected connections across time and across cultures.The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from The Met's Open Access dataset under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY, USA 10028
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