Research Paper on:
Petrus Christus's The Annunciation

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
the Netherlands to use. The structure and symmetry of the images give it the appearance of a showcase of the central figures, the angel to the left and the Virgin  on the right of the foreground. Between them, on the floor in the centre is a vase of white flowers: their species is indeterminate, but it would be reasonable to  assume they are some variety of lilies, these being associated (as is their colour) with Mary. Above her head is a small dove: again, a common symbolic representation of virginity.  The geometrical design of the flooring draws the eye back to  the open door in the background, which leads out on to a waterway with houses surrounding it. Framing the central foreground figures are two pillars, surmounted by patriarchal statues: one  is holding a scroll and the other a book. Above them is an arch which includes a number of smaller scenes in relief and the top corners of the picture  contain an abstract design incorporating what appears to be a triskele within a circle. Above the door is an arched, leaded window with a small circular representation of three figures,  as well as two smaller stained-glass inserts lower down. On the right-hand side, behind  Mary, is a curtain or hanging of some kind surmounted by a canopy, and there is a small table with a book in front of her. Surrounding the angel there  are no items of furniture, but only space and light from the high windows. It is evident that the two central figures are the most immediately striking out of the