Notice that, as early as the third century, Mary was seated on a throne, and the angel appears in very human form -- no wings or halo. Very little resemblance to the scenes of later, especially Renaissance, art, which you can find in abundance here.
Another wonderful early representation of the annunciation comes from the Coptic tradition in Egypt, perhaps around 710 A.D.:
According to an article on Early Coptic Painting on the "Tour Egypt" website, "This remarkable work is not only inspiring because of its grand style, but also its rich iconography. It depicts the Holy Virgin, seated on a throne, listening to the archangel's message. She is surrounded by four prophets, consisting of Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel and Daniel, holding scrolls with Coptic inscriptions. In the background is the town of Nazareth. This theme is unique to Egypt."
Liturgically, our celebration of the Annunciation is not a feast of Mary but a deast of the Lord, we are celebrating the beginning of his earthly life as one of us. Good news indeed.
The catacomb art is remarkable... The fact that this kind of depiction was made as early as it was, is pretty compelling and convicting for the Blessed Virgin's queenship and how she would reinforce her Son's Davidic Kingdom...Blessed be He...Thanks for the post, Father.
ReplyDelete-Steven Nelson