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
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