Comparing Annunciation And Lippo Memmi

Art is a very abstract thing. There are many similarities and differences that are not apparent at first glance. In fact, it is common that pieces developed during completely different time periods, or in different regions of the world have similar aspects. This is precisely the situation when comparing the Annunciation, by brothers Simone Martini and Lippo Memmi, and the Merode Altarpiece which was produced in the workshop of an artist known as the Master of Flemalle. Because of the time and locational differences, these pieces are vastly different with respect to their style, presentation, and culture; however, their subject, organization, and use appear to be quite similar. The Annunciation, was produced by Italian Gothic artists, with the intention of placing it in the Siena Cathedral. This piece was one of four commissioned pieces to be dedicated to the patron saints
of Siena. This piece was made out of vast amounts of gold leafing and tempera. This work of art is composed to a central panel, and two side panels. The two side panels contain saints, and the middle panel contains the main story line. In this panel, the archangel Gabriel enters the house of Mary to declare that she will be giving birth to the Savior. The words that Gabriel speaks are written on the piece and can be vaguely seen going from Gabriel’s mouth to Mary’s ear. Gabriel is also holding an olive branch which is a symbol of peace. The artists capture a startled look on Mary’s face at the moment she hears the news that the angel is delivering. This piece integrates a lot of realistic action between the angel and Mary which is a stark difference from the usual Byzantinian style. The Merode Altarpiece is a triptych altarpiece that was painted utilizing oil paint, alongside opaque pigments. This piece is relatively small in comparison to other altarpieces of the time, with the center panel measuring a mere 60 x 63 cm. The central panel depicts the Annunciation of Mary. In contrast to the Annunciation, Mary has not reacted to the angels presence. In stark contrast with the societal norms of the time, this painting depicts Mary and Joseph living together, prior to marriage. The left side panel depicts the female donor and her servant. Meanwhile, the right panel depicts Joseph working as a carpenter. The scroll and book that are in front of Mary represent the Old and New Testament. The irony, however, is that the New Testament has not been completely written, as the entire prophecy has not been fulfilled. It should also be noted that Mary is presented as a humble figure in this painting which can be seen by her position on the floor. This also comes in contrast with the Annunciation, in which Mary appears to be a holy figure sitting on a throne. Though there are a number of differences between these two pieces of art, there are also a number of similarities.
First, though vastly different in size, both pieces contain three panels: one main panel and two side panels. These panels are also utilized in similar ways. The middle panel for each piece contains the main story line, and the outside panels contain supporting characters, namely the saints. The main difference in this aspect is that the Merode Altarpiece also contains the donor and her servant on the left side panel. Secondly, both pieces depict the annunciation of Mary. Though both paintings depict this scene differently, the story line is the same. In both instances, and angel comes down to speak with Mary and tell her that she will be birthing the Savior of the world. From there, the similarities generally go away. In the first piece, Mary looks frightened, while the the second piece, Mary is completely oblivious to the situation at hand. Lastly, the usage of these paintings appear to be similar. Both were intended to be utilized in the church as decorations around the
altar. Though these pieces were utilized in different geographical locations, their commonality of the church brings them together in unsuspecting ways. At the same time, it is important to recognize these pieces for their differences and recognize that many of these differences are due to the artist, and the influence of other people around them. After close analysis it can be determined that the pieces do have a similar subject matter, but at first glance they appear to be completely different due to their vastly different appearances.

Works Cited