734 - F. RUSCHEWEYH (*1785) after ANGELICO (*1395), The Annunciation, 1822, steel engraving

F. RUSCHEWEYH (*1785) after ANGELICO (*1395), The Annunciation, 1822, steel engraving Ferdinand von Ruscheweyh (1785 Neustrelitz – 1845 ibid.) after Fra Angelico (1395 Vicchio near Florence – 1455 Rome): Annunciation scene: The Annunciation to Mary by the angel Gabriel, 1822, steel engraving Technique: Steel engraving on paper Inscription: Signed on the printing plate at the bottom: "B. Angelico da Fiesole pinx. / Ferd. Ruscheweyh sc". Inscribed at the bottom of the printing plate: “Ave Maria gratia plena Ecce Ancilla Domini.” Dated in the lower right: “1822.” Date: 1822 Description: The image depicts two circularly framed scenes of the Annunciation to Mary. On the left, the angel Gabriel is kneeling, with wings and a halo, raising his right hand in greeting. He wears a long, flowing robe and stands on a cloud. On the right, Mary sits in humble prayer, also with a halo, wearing a long dress. Her hands are folded, and her gaze is directed downward. The background is simple and emphasizes the figures, which are highlighted by the circular framing. The lighting is even, without dramatic shadows, giving the scene a calm, devotional atmosphere. Latin inscriptions are visible beneath the images. Keywords: Annunciation; Archangel Gabriel; Mary; Saintly halo; Prayer; Christian iconography; Latin script; Circles; Prayer; Humility; Religious art; Symbolism; Wings; Clouds; Clothing; Composition; Drawing; 19th century; Simplicity; 19th century; Renaissance; Biblical; Italy; Size: Paper: 12.4 cm x 14.8 cm (4.9 x 5.8 in), Plate: 9.6 cm x 12.1 cm (3.8 x 4.8 in), Image: 5.6 cm x 10.8 cm (2.2 x 4.3 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. Some soiling and faint foxing on all sides. Small brown stains in the upper left margin. Small punctures visible in the corners. The corners of the sheet are slightly bumped. Minor traces of adhesive tape in the upper margin of the image.