The Annunciation

The Archangel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will conceive and bear the Son of God. The icon captures the pivotal moment when Mary responds: 'Let it be to me according to your word.' In this moment, God waits upon a human response — and the Incarnation begins.

The Annunciation icon typically shows Gabriel approaching from the left with a staff, while Mary sits or stands on the right, often holding a spindle (a detail from the Protoevangelium of James).