The Annunciation

Carlo Maratta

National Gallery of Art

Two figures are depicted mostly in full length, with attention drawn to their upper bodies and facial expressions. The scene involves a woman standing upright, gesturing towards a winged figure positioned on the left who is mid-air atop a cloud. The woman has finely drawn facial features with an intent expression and her hair styled close to her head. Her clothing consists of a long flowing garment and a shawl draped around her shoulders. The winged figure has curly hair flowing around their head, reaching out with one hand and also wearing a draped garment. Between the figures, there is a pedestal featuring a carved figure. Above them, clouds fill the sky with a small bird outlined mid-flight and a face peeking through the clouds. The background shows architectural elements, such as a building with distinct lines.