Vierge de l'Annonciation

This Virgin of the Annunciation from around 1609 is an early work showing Gentileschi developing her artistic identity under the influence of her father Orazio and the broader Roman Caravaggist circle. The Annunciation was a standard devotional subject. Artemisia Gentileschi's powerfully direct treatment of female subjects—heroines, saints, and biblical figures depicted with unprecedented psychological force and physical credibility—makes her one of the most significant figures in the Baroque tradition.

The Virgin is rendered with the strong chiaroscuro of early Roman Caravaggism. Gentileschi's handling of the contemplative figure shows her developing ability to convey inner states through subtle expression.