The Annunciation (Virgin Mary) - Crispijn van de Passe (I)

A detailed 17th-century engraving by Crispijn van de Passe (I) depicting the Virgin Mary during the Annunciation, framed by Latin scripture and celestial figures.

This engraving by Crispijn van de Passe (I) depicts the Virgin Mary at the moment of the Annunciation. The composition is contained within an oval frame, a common device in late sixteenth and early seventeenth-century printmaking. Mary is shown in a moment of quiet contemplation, holding a book, which suggests her engagement with scripture at the time of the divine encounter. Her gaze is directed upwards, acknowledging the presence of the Holy Spirit, represented by the dove descending amidst rays of light.

The artist employs precise, controlled lines to model the drapery of Mary's garments and the soft features of her face. The surrounding oval border contains Latin text, referencing the Gospel of Luke, which frames the central figure and integrates the narrative into the visual structure. Cherubic heads occupy the corners of the rectangular plate, providing a celestial context to the scene. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of volume and depth, typical of the technical proficiency found in the Van de Passe workshop.

Crispijn van de Passe (I) was a prolific engraver and publisher based in the Netherlands. His work often disseminated religious and mythological themes to a wider audience through the medium of print. This particular piece demonstrates the influence of Mannerist aesthetics, seen in the elongated proportions and the expressive, slightly dramatic turn of the figure. The clarity of the engraving allows for a detailed examination of the textures, from the smooth skin of the cherubs to the heavy folds of the fabric. The inclusion of Latin inscriptions at the base provides additional theological context, inviting the viewer to reflect upon the significance of the event depicted. This print is a fine example of the technical skill and iconographic tradition prevalent in Dutch printmaking during the early modern period.