The Annunciation (1898)

Henry Ossawa Tanner's "The Annunciation" (1898) depicts the biblical moment of the Angel Gabriel's announcement to the Virgin Mary, characterized by its ethereal light and emotional depth, reflecting Tanner's innovative approach to religious themes. The painting has significantly influenced curatorial practices by prompting discussions on representation, spirituality, and the role of African American artists in the broader context of American art history.

Henry Ossawa Tanner's "The Annunciation" (1898) depicts the moment of the Angel Gabriel's announcement to the Virgin Mary, characterized by a luminous interplay of light and shadow that enhances the ethereal quality of the scene. The composition features a serene Mary, draped in flowing garments, seated in a modest interior, while the angel, rendered with delicate brushwork, emanates a soft, radiant glow that contrasts with the darker, muted tones of the surrounding space.