3-072-118 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Annunciation, 1892. Memling located the scene of the Annunciation in a typical bedroom interior filled with objects of everyday use, which nevertheless remain relevant with their symbolic content. A transparent glass decanter with white lilies symbolises Mary's chastity. Gabriel the Archangel holds a sceptre in his hand, the symbol of his godly mission, and is clad in liturgical vestments. Mary is supported by two angels in white albs with a dove, the symbol of the Holy Spirit, hovering above her head.