handmade icon of the annunciation late 19th century

handmade Russian icon of the annunciation from the late19th century

the icon in great condition little damage on the lift bottom of the icon with beautiful enamel on the four corner of the Fram

• size: 35x30
• date: 1910-1930
• damage : on the lift bottom corner 
• russian 
• Moscow style 
• the icon came with certificate from the Israeli authority of antiquities and the Germany icon museum 

Icons of the Annunciation depict the moment when the Archangel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will conceive and bear the Son of God. This event is a significant and widely represented theme in Christian art, particularly in Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, and other Christian traditions. Here are some key elements commonly found in icons of the Annunciation:

1. **Archangel Gabriel:** Usually depicted with wings, Gabriel is shown delivering the message to Mary. Gabriel often holds a staff or a lily, symbolizing purity.

2. **Virgin Mary:** Mary is often shown in a receptive posture, such as kneeling or seated. She may have a gesture of acceptance or surprise, signifying her consent to the divine plan.

3. **Dove:** The Holy Spirit is often symbolized by a dove, representing the divine presence. The dove may be shown descending upon Mary as she receives the news.

4. **Symbolic Elements:** The Annunciation icon may include symbolic elements such as a curtain, representing the veil between the divine and human realms, or a vase of lilies symbolizing Mary's purity.

5. **Words of the Annunciation:** Inscriptions or scrolls in the icon may contain the words of Gabriel's announcement to Mary, often taken from the Gospel of Luke (Luke 1:26-38).

6. **Colors:** The colors used in the icon are often symbolic. Mary is typically dressed in blue, a color associated with purity and humility, while Gabriel may wear white or gold, symbolizing the divine.

7. **Architectural Setting:** The scene may be set in a room or within an architectural structure, often with a sense of symmetry and balance.

8. **Historical and Cultural Variations:** Different regions and artistic traditions may introduce variations in the depiction of the Annunciation. For example, Byzantine, Russian, and Western European traditions may have distinct stylistic elements.

The Annunciation is a moment of profound theological significance as it marks the beginning of the Incarnation—the belief that God became human in the person of Jesus Christ. Icons of the Annunciation serve as aids to contemplation and worship, helping believers to reflect on the mystery and humility of this pivotal moment in Christian theology.