Oak Relief of the Annunciation, Southern Netherlands early 16th century.

Southern Netherlands (Flanders), early 16th century.

Measurements: 31 × 30 × 9 cm (excluding plinth).

Height including later plinth: 34 cm.

Carved in oak with vestiges of original polychromy, this finely rendered relief depicts the Annunciation, a key episode in Christian iconography. The Archangel Gabriel approaches from the left in dynamic motion, his right hand raised in benediction and his left holding a scroll or phylactery. Opposite him, the Virgin Mary kneels demurely at a carved prie-dieu, her hands joined in prayer and her long, flowing hair carefully defined in curling strands. The folds of the garments are sharply articulated in rhythmic, angular drapery, characteristic of Netherlandish carving of the late Gothic and early Renaissance transition.

Traces of original polychromy remain within the recesses, particularly in the folds of the garments and hair, suggesting a once richly coloured surface. The sculpture remains in a remarkably honest state of preservation, with the exception of a restored forelock to the angel. The reverse is unworked, consistent with its original function as a fixed architectural or devotional element, possibly from a domestic altarpiece or retable setting.