The Annunciation

John Williams Waterhouse's depiction of The Annunciation, from Luke's Gospel, is a beautiful and classic example of the Victorian Romanticism era of his paintings. Painted in 1914 with oil on canvas, it is rich in religious imagery and symbolism. Mary is depicted kneeling in a state of total humility to the angel before her. The angel Gabriel comes with flowers, specifically lillies, a symbol of her purity, and is surrounded by gorgeous botanical vines and flowers evoking the Garden of Eden, as Mary represents the new Eve. I love its beautiful color palette and loose open brushstrokes. 

This painting would be a beautiful gift for a young girl or for a woman for any occasion. I especially love it as a gift for any of the Sacraments, reminding our women today of the beauty in Mary's fiat.