The Annunciation

The Archangel Gabriel greets Mary with his arms crossed over his chest, signifying the fulfillment of God’s will. Behind the distinctive Renaissance architecture, an enclosed garden opens up—a biblical metaphor from the Song of Solomon (4:12), interpreted in Christianity as an emblem of the Virgin Mary's purity. Like Antonio and Piero del Pollaiolo, Alesso Baldovinetti also contributed to the decoration of Cardinal James of Portugal's chapel in the church of San Miniato al Monte, executing several fresco paintings.