In the Picture: Mary

Virgin of the Annunciation

Antonello da Messina 1430-1479

Alte Pinakothek, Munich

Read: Luke 2. 19

But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.

 & Luke 2.51

[Jesus’ mother] treasured all these things in her heart.

Antonello da Messina’s version of the annunciation is an unusual one. Gabriel is nowhere to be seen. There is none of the drama we saw in yesterday’s picture. We can see that Mary has received the message, however, perhaps through the words of the Bible which lies open in front of her. Her expression tells us that though she appears to be totally still, her mind is whirring with thoughts. What will happen to her? What will happen to her child? How can this be? Why her? Can this be true?

• What do you do when you receive news which surprises or shocks you? Do you rush to share it with others, or prefer to keep it to yourself for a while?
• Are there things that have happened to you which you return to and mull over again and again?