The Annunciation
Jaume Ferrer the Younger·c. 1457
Historical Context
This Annunciation panel by Jaume Ferrer the Younger from around 1457 likely formed part of the same altarpiece complex as his Nativity scenes, together narrating the early life of Christ. The Ferrer workshop in Lleida was among the most important in Catalonia, producing elaborate polyptychs for churches throughout the region. The International Gothic style persisted longer in Catalonia than in Italy, maintaining its decorative richness well into the second half of the 15th century.
Technical Analysis
The oil, tempera, and gold on fir panel combines traditional gold ground techniques with emerging oil painting methods. The elegant, elongated figures and rich patterning of textiles reflect the International Gothic aesthetic that continued to dominate Catalan painting.
Provenance
Church in Peralta de la Sal, likely sold to Celestino Dupont; Celestino Dupont, France; French and Company, New York, NY, sold to Frank H. Ginn; Frank H. Ginn, Cleveland, OH, gifted to the Cleveland Museum of Art; The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
