Annunciation of the Virgin Mary | Gold and Silver foiled lithography print | Size: 5 1/4"x4 1/2"

The Icon depicts the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary as it happened when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced to her that she would give birth to the Son of God, Jesus Christ. She, without any hesitation, answered: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word" and upon her response, the Angel departed.

In this icon, God is represented by a circle; God has no beginning and no end and cannot be depicted in a form. Within the circle, a dove represents the Holy Spirit. The three rays upon Mary represent the Trinity. In the buildings, which signify the Arc of the Covenant, are bushes that are symbolic of new life. Mary sits on the viewer’s right on a throne indicating she is the theotokos – Mother or bearer of God. Mary is also elevated, indicating her place of honor. Her posture and slightly bowed head indicate her humility and obedience. Raising her right hand, she signifies her acceptance. In doing so, she is answering the sender, not the messenger.

Commemorated on April 7