The Annunciation Moscow School, 14th century. Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow, 43 x 34 cm. This icon represents the Annunciation, that is, the moment when "The angel came in unto (Mary), and said, Hail, thou that art highly favored, the Lord is with thee, blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS." (KJV, Luke 1: 28-31). In this painting the artist faithfully expresses the emotion and importance of the Annunciation scene. The angel occupies the left half of the picture plane, Mary occupies the right, and both stand out against the background constructed of architectural details connected in the middle of the picture. In contrast to the rather flat, forward–facing figures found in some icons, the announcing angel is shown from a side view which emphasizes depth and dynamic movement. The flow of drapery and the position of the wings reflects the fact that the angel has suddenly appeared and helps strengthen the contrast with Mary, who is shown in a fixed and motionless pose. The beautiful gold and blue-green of the angel also emphasizes its heavenly origin and is balanced by the dark clothing worn by Mary, a representative of earth and humankind. While the angel's hand is outstretched as it speaks God's message, Mary's head is bowed as if in agreement and humility. Both figures are well-proportioned and accurately express the content of the scene. The overall color scheme of the background consists of a combination of yellow, cream, shades of orange, and black, which gives the icon a warm, coherent tone. The two figures in the foreground stand out against the surrounding colors, but do not clash. In fact, Mary's clothing seems to correspond to the dark colors found in the roofs above her and in the angel, helping to unite foreground and background. The angel's coloring is unique in the painting and emphasizes its heavenly nature and function as one who announces the will of God to the world. http://www.rollins.edu/Foreign_Lang/Russian/annunc.html