Sculpture of the Virgin of the Annunciation, Italy, 15th century

A very beautiful Virgin of the Annunciation, sculpted in the round, stands with her hips slightly swaying, in an elegant and reserved pose.
She wears a dress with a scooped collar embroidered with lace, which already reveals a slightly rounded belly.
The dress and cloak fall in parallel folds, testifying to the Romanesque influences still present.
Her long, wavy hair falls freely over her shoulders.
We are faced with a sculpture of candid charm, illustrated by the facial expression and the position of Mary's right hand, which holds a piece of her cloak.
This wood carving evokes the moment when Mary receives a visit from the Archangel Gabriel, who informs her that she has been chosen by God to bear his son. The Annunciation is a favorite theme in Gothic sculpture as well as in early Renaissance statuary. Mary is then depicted holding a book (the angel Gabriel interrupts her reading) in a reserved pose that reveals a sense of modesty and gentle melancholy.

Dimensions: H. 60 cm x W. 18 cm x D. 13 cm

Italy
Original polychrome
15th century