The Annunciation
The theme is a mandatory presence on the iconostasis, frequently represented in frescoes, icons or church patrons' icons, as well as illuminations. Its least elaborated variant depicts the two main characters adorning the Royal Doors - Archangel Gabriel on the left and the Virgin Mary on the right. But usually the iconographic theme is more complex, with conventional architectonic details in the background. The Archangel Gabriel brings the good tidings to the young Virgin Mary (cf. Luke 1,28-32). The gestures of the two characters underline the text of the Gospel: the Archangel Gabriel is usually depicted standing, in profile, ready to kneel while blessing the Virgin with his right hand. In the early representations the Virgin is frequently seen standing, in profile, looking towards the divine messenger, her posture suggesting submission. Later on, variants stressing upon the Virgin's attitude may also be encountered. Thus, influenced by Catholic representations, is the variant in which the Virgin's posture suggests her surprise and innocence. The Virgin Mary is represented sitting, her body turned away from the Archangel's (cf. Luke 1,34). Significant, although varied, are the objects held by the Archangel in his hand. They may be: a palm branch - a symbol of the victory of the spirit over the flesh, a spear - a reference to the significance of the name Gabriel in Hebrew: God is my strength, or a parchment scroll - an allusion to the Old Testament prophecies.
The theme is a mandatory presence on the iconostasis, frequently represented in frescoes, icons or church patrons' icons, as well as illuminations. Its least elaborated variant depicts the two main characters adorning the Royal Doors - Archangel Gabriel on the left and the Virgin Mary on the right. But usually the iconographic theme is more complex, with conventional architectonic details in the background. The Archangel Gabriel brings the good tidings to the young Virgin Mary (cf. Luke 1,28-32). The gestures of the two characters underline the text of the Gospel: the Archangel Gabriel is usually depicted standing, in profile, ready to kneel while blessing the Virgin with his right hand. In the early representations the Virgin is frequently seen standing, in profile, looking towards the divine messenger, her posture suggesting submission. Later on, variants stressing upon the Virgin's attitude may also be encountered. Thus, influenced by Catholic representations, is the variant in which the Virgin's posture suggests her surprise and innocence. The Virgin Mary is represented sitting, her body turned away from the Archangel's (cf. Luke 1,34). Significant, although varied, are the objects held by the Archangel in his hand. They may be: a palm branch - a symbol of the victory of the spirit over the flesh, a spear - a reference to the significance of the name Gabriel in Hebrew: God is my strength, or a parchment scroll - an allusion to the Old Testament prophecies.
