\paperw19995 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 In this representation, the VirginÆs head is covered with a blue mantle that falls onto her shoulders and her hands crossed
on her breast. She is looking to the left.\par
The prayer book that is open in front of her is reproduced by the artist in minute detail. The outline of her figure, which is bathed in the light that defines the paintingÆs depth through different planes,
stands out clearly against the dark background. The geometric proportions of her face and body show the influence of Piero della FrancescaÆs work. \par
The \i Annunciation\i0 , which is centered on the representation of the main protagonist, is depicte
d in such a way that observers feel as if they were witnessing the event firsthand.\par
The work, which dates from the years 1473-1474, precedes another version of the same subject by Antonello da Messina, which is now in the Museo Nazionale of Palermo.
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The picture from which the painting was reproduced was acquired in Padua at the end of the last century by a Bavarian dealer acting on behalf of the museum in Munich.
