\paperw19995 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 This episode from the Gospels is set in the open air, in the garden of a Renaissance villa in Tuscany.\par
The sacred space
is defined by a low stone wall, with a row of plants running along it, while the Virgin is seated in front of a richly carved book rest on the threshold of her house.\par
From the shady nook that is formed by the curve of the building behind her, she s
tares in wonder at the miraculous appearance of Gabriel.\par
Her astonishment is conveyed by her raised left hand, while her right hand rests on the prayer book to stop it from closing.\par
The angel, whose profile stands out sharply against the dark t
runk of the tree behind, has only just arrived and his wings are still spread.\par
Behind him a break in the parapet offers a view of the countryside, where a winding path leads the observerÆs gaze toward a breathtaking horizon. Here seemingly transluce
nt mountains and the numerous towers of a city are reflected in a large body of water, where boats are sailing around a lighthouse.
