Art Talk: The Annunciation

In the month of June I am highlighting Andrew Mellon and the Hermitage.

This week we will be taking a closer look at Jan van Eyck's The Annunciation an amazing painting!

Jan van Eyck
The Annunciation, 1434

This painting and really any painting by Jan van Eyck needs to be seen in person to see the incredible detail. In this painting the Angel Gabriel is telling Mary telling that she will be the mother of Jesus Christ.

The rich Christian symbolism is all over the painting.
The windows behind Mary's head signifying the Trinity of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Mary's blue robe denoting her royal status
The seven rays of light coming down from the left windows represent the 7 gifts of the spirit
White lilies represent Mary's purity
Floor is depicting Old testament scenes and zodiac signs

For a closer look at this incredible painting. its symbolism and details see this link.

Jan van Eyck was a master oil painter and his skill to paint details is unparalleled even 586 years later. His ability to paint objects that look like stone, glass, cloth, skin, jewels, and plants is truly remarkable.

For sure one of my favorite paintings and a great purchase of Andrew Mellon from the Hermitage.

Source:
NGA- The Annunciation

Art Talk Series Highlights

2020
Art Talk: Recycled Plastic Art Movement
Art Talk: Gates of Paradise

March- Italian Renaissance
Art Talk: NGA Italian Renaissance Tour
Art Talk: Raphael
Art Talk: Venus
Art Talk: Egg Tempera
Art Talk: Guest Blogger, @laurabellamy

April- French Impressionism
Art Talk: NGA French Impressionism Tour
Art Talk: Fredric Bazille
Art Talk: The Mother and Sister of the Artist
Art Talk: En plein air

May- Hudson River School
Art Talk: NGA Hudson River School Tour
Art Talk: Albert Bierstadt
Art Talk: The Voyage of Life
Art Talk: Romanticism & Nature & Hudson River School

June-Andrew Mellon and the Hermitage
Art Talk: NGA Andrew Mellon and the Hermitage Tour
Art Talk: Rembrandt