The Annunciation

March 25th The icon of the Annunciation, based on a later medieval original, is a masterpiece of balance between dynamic action and contemplative meditation. The Archangel Gabriel, on the left symbolizing the eternal realm, stands on a platform of authority while addressing to the young Virgin the invitation to become the Theotokos, the “God Bearer”. The angel is almost a blur of garments and gestures to symbolize running and movement while the Virgin responds in surprise, dropping the spool of red thread with which she was creating the veil for the Temple.Seated on her ornately carved and canopied chair, the Virgin declares “Let it be done to me according to God’s will”. It is then that the Holy Spirit descends on her from above.