Annunciation El Greco (1541-1614)

The composition presents a scene of profound spiritual significance, structured around two central figures: a young woman seated at a table and a winged messenger positioned nearby. The woman is engaged with a book or manuscript laid open before her; her posture suggests surprise and perhaps apprehension, indicated by the gesture of one hand raised towards the approaching figure. She wears a rich, layered garment – a crimson underdress overlaid with a deep blue mantle – that emphasizes both her humility and dignity.
The messenger stands in a dynamic pose, hands clasped in what appears to be an expression of reverence or supplication. He is enveloped within swirling clouds, suggesting his divine origin and otherworldly nature. The wings are rendered with considerable detail, their feathers appearing almost tangible against the turbulent sky. A dove, traditionally symbolizing the Holy Spirit, hovers above them, further reinforcing the sacred context of the encounter.
The artist’s use of light contributes significantly to the paintings emotional impact. Intense illumination focuses on the figures and the dove, creating a dramatic contrast with the darker background. This chiaroscuro effect intensifies the sense of revelation and emphasizes the spiritual weight of the moment. The palette is dominated by warm tones – reds, yellows, and golds – which convey a feeling of warmth, divine grace, and perhaps even an underlying intensity.
At the base of the composition, a small table holds a vase with lilies, a traditional symbol of purity and innocence. A draped cloth lies nearby, adding to the sense of solemnity and ritual. The overall effect is one of heightened emotion and spiritual drama, conveying a moment of profound significance within a narrative framework steeped in religious symbolism.