The Annunciation, a pivotal event in Christian theology, depicts the angel Gabriel informing Mary that she will conceive and bear a son, Jesus, who will be the Son of God. Artistic representations often portray Mary with a book or engaged in prayer, highlighting her piety, while Gabriel typically holds a lily, symbolizing purity. These depictions serve as visual narratives of the event described in the Gospel of Luke.
This narrative holds immense significance within Christianity, marking the beginning of the Incarnation, the belief that God became human in the person of Jesus. The acceptance of this divine message by Mary exemplifies obedience and faith. Across centuries, the Annunciation has inspired countless works of art, literature, and music, reflecting its enduring cultural and religious importance. Its impact extends beyond religious contexts, influencing artistic expression and shaping Western cultural understanding of motherhood, divinity, and destiny.