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1 of 253523 objects
Guercino (Cento 1591-Bologna 1666)
The Angel of the Annunciation c. 1638-9
Pen, with traces of wash | 24.8 x 20.2 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 902801
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A drawing of an angel, full length, in profile to the right, about to kneel. He holds a lily upright in his right hand. Guercino was commissioned to paint an altarpiece of the Annunciation for the Ospedale Maggiore in Milan in 1638. This is one of two drawings in the Royal Collection in which Guercino studied the figure of the angel, who leans towards Mary with a lily in his hand. The urgent pen strokes are typical of Guercino's rapid and expressive draughtsmanship. See also RCIN 902794, 902856, 902711.
Provenance
Bequeathed by the artist to Benedetto and Cesare Gennari; from whose descendants purchased by Richard Dalton for George III, c.1758-63; first recorded in a Royal Collection inventory of c.1800-1820 (Inv.A, p.66)
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Medium and techniques
Pen, with traces of wash
Measurements
24.8 x 20.2 cm (sheet of paper)
Other number(s)
RL 2801
