The Annunciation

“And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.” Luke 1:30-31

In this icon, the Archangel Gabriel appears to the Virgin Mary, announcing that she will conceive the Son of God by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Luke 1:35) Tradition says that Mary was weaving the red veil of the Temple when she was visited by the angel. In this image, she drops her spindle in surprise at his appearance. Mary’s holy feet do not touch the ground, and she has a seat of honor on a red pillow. The angel Gabriel’s hand is extended in a blessing gesture and he holds a staff, signifying his status as a messenger. The white cloth near the top of the icon represents purity. The half circle at the top of the image represents the Holy Spirit.

12 x 16 inches

original: unavailable