This panel, with Mannerist characteristics that are so evident that it was long attributed to Parmigianino, has a wealth of symbolic references and classical elements. The scene is set in front of a vaguely classical temple, indicating that the Virgin has believed in the angelic annunciation and has thus become the temple of the Word and the new Ark of the Covenant. Also the figure of the archangel Gabriel has a classical look, almost as though he were Mercury, the messenger of the gods. An open book on Mary’s kneeler – a book of hours, it seems, for it contains rubrics to indicate the correct order of the prayers – bears two biblical quotations (Is 7:14 and Mc 1:34;38) referring to the mystery of the Incarnation.
An itinerary through the treasures of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana curated by Federico Gallo and Stefano Martinelli Tempesta | Pinacoteca, rooms 2 and 3
From April 15, on the occasion of Design Week, the rooms of the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana will host 'Moleskine Detour', an international exhibition promoted by Moleskine and the Moleskine Foundation.
Recovery of the functionality of the balconies of the Sala Federiciana, Borromeo and della Rosa through the installation of lifelines
Every Saturday at 15.30 a guided tour of the masterpieces of the Pinacoteca, together with professional guides of our official partner AdArtem
