The Master of the Triptych of Louis XII
(French, Limoges
,
active 1500-1525)
Plaque with the Annunciation
ca. 1500
painted enamel on copper
7.88 x 7 in
20.00 x 17.78 cm
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
88.113
In this standard image of the Annunciation, Gabriel greets Mary just prior to announcing that she will give birth to God’s son: “Ave gratia plena” (Hail, you who are full of grace). The architectural features surrounding these Gothic-style figures presage Renaissance conventions. The image’s brightly colored enamels compare to the heavenly light associated with gemstones or stained glass, emphasizing the divine importance of this scene.
JS