The Marian Library is hosting two exhibits that explore visual expressions of the Annunciation. Both are located in Roesch Library and are open through Oct. 23.
According to the Gospel of Luke, the angel Gabriel appears to Mary and shares God’s plan — for Mary to become pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit and bear a son who will bring salvation to the world. In response, Mary says, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
In artistic depictions of the Annunciation, Mary is often found on the right side of the composition, with the angel Gabriel on the left. The Holy Spirit is often represented symbolically as a dove or a beam of light.
‘Blessed Among Women: The Annunciation in Contemporary Art’
In contemporary sacred art, the familiar scene of the Annunciation takes new form. Using imagery inspired by tradition, artists imagine the scene in modern settings and employ modern techniques and media.
The 30 works on display in the Stuart and Mimi Rose Gallery were recently donated to the Marian Library from John A. Kohan’s Sacred Art Pilgrim Collection. Kohan’s travels and experiences inspired him to make art and collect sacred works by modern artists.
‘Fiat and Faith: Symbolism of the Annunciation’
Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan is known as her fiat, Latin for “let it be done.” Objects seen around Mary and Gabriel in Annunciation depictions can hold symbolic meanings that connect with this pivotal moment.
A lily can symbolize Mary’s purity. According to legend, when Mary touched a scentless lily presented by Gabriel, it suddenly became fragrant. A book may symbolize Old Testament prophecies. Popular in depictions of the Annunciation from the Middle Ages, the inclusion of a book also presented Mary as a model of medieval womanhood — a woman focused on personal piety through reading religious texts.
Annunciation scenes in artwork, rare books, holy cards and postcards from the Marian Library’s collections include many different symbols. This exhibit, in the Marian Library Gallery, explores the meaning behind 17 symbols found in the items on display.
Also on Display
Mirror of Hope: 25 Years of Visual Storytelling, in the Crèche Museum on the seventh floor, features two depictions of the Annunciation by Kevin Hanna. The Annunciation marks the transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament in “Mirror of Hope,” a 12-foot-long, 8-foot-high sculpture that tells the story of human salvation. In “Mirror of Hope,” Mary is depicted as reading a book when the angel appears to her. In a stand-alone Annunciation sculpture, as Gabriel whispers his news in Mary’s ear, Mary pours milk from a pitcher, which can emphasize Mary’s role as a “vessel” in the birth of Jesus.
— Bridget Retzloff is an assistant professor and the coordinator of art collections and exhibits.
