The Annunciation (1898) by Henry Ossawa Tanner.
The Angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary has been a favourite subject of art for centuries, but few are like this depiction of The Annunciation by Henry Ossawa Tanner. Unlike the many serene paintings of this scene, it is clear that the Angel’s arrival has caught Mary by surprise. The carpet and materials are wrinkled, she has had no time to prepare. The Angel’s radiance is so bright it is hard to focus on it for more than a few seconds. Mary looks vulnerable, uncertain, but also expectant. What strikes you in this image? Where do you expect God to be at work? Where might God be at work where you least expect it?
