Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Virgin from the Annunciation

Filippino Lippi, 1483

Name Class Date
Filippino Lippi, Virgin from the Annunciation (1483), Museo Civico. Public domain.

The facts

Artist
Filippino Lippi originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/filippino-lippi/
Artist’s dates
1457 – 1504
Painted
1483
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
110 x 110 cm
Movement
High Renaissance The brief peak when balance, depth and anatomy came together — Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo.
Period
Renaissance
Held at
Museo Civico originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/museo-civico-san-gimignano/
Artistic style
High Renaissance
Subject or theme
Annunciation

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Filippino Lippi died in 1504; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1574.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Aug. 28, 2026

Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi

How big is it?

The original measures 110 × 110 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1450
  2. 1460
  3. 1470
  4. 1480
  5. 1490
  6. 1500

Shaded: the lifetime of Filippino Lippi (1457–1504) ▲ this work, 1483

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Black #0b0706

    Catalogued palette

    • #0B0706
    • #955B47
    • #D3B38A
    • #452E27
    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Black
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Deep_shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Aug. 28, 2026

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi

    The Sacred Moment Captured: An Encounter with Divine Grace

    To gaze upon this depiction of the Virgin from the Annunciation is to step across the threshold of time and into a moment suspended by divine will. The scene itself, rendered with exquisite detail, portrays Mary kneeling in profound contemplation, her hands folded in an attitude of prayer that speaks volumes without uttering a single word. Filippino Lippi masterfully captures not merely the physical act of devotion, but the very soul's receptivity to the miraculous. The rich folds of her red garments draw the eye, providing a vibrant counterpoint to the serene, intellectual atmosphere established by the surrounding architectural elements.

    A Tapestry of Renaissance Detail and Symbolism

    What elevates this work beyond simple portraiture is the meticulous integration of its setting. Observe the background: it unfolds with the quiet grandeur of an educated scholar's chamber. The visible window suggests a connection to the outside world, yet the focus remains inward, toward the sacred dialogue taking place. More captivating are the bookshelves, laden with volumes whose very presence speaks to accumulated knowledge—the intersection of divine revelation and human intellect. Each book, varying in size and placement, contributes to a sense of learned piety. Near the upper right corner, the delicate inclusion of a vase adds a touch of naturalistic beauty, grounding the ethereal event within a tangible, domestic space.

    Mastery of Technique: The Hand of Filippino Lippi

    Painted in 1483, this piece stands as a testament to the burgeoning genius of Filippino Lippi. While his career saw him evolve from early works toward the sophisticated heights of the High Renaissance, here we see a masterful balance between narrative clarity and delicate execution. The technique employed allows for both the luminosity of skin tones and the deep, saturated color found in Mary's robes. His ability to imbue inanimate objects—the wood grain of the shelves, the texture of the paper—with such convincing realism anchors the spiritual drama, inviting the viewer into a palpable reality.

    Echoes of Devotion for the Modern Sanctuary

    For the collector or designer seeking an object that transcends mere decoration, this reproduction offers profound resonance. It is not simply art to hang on a wall; it is a meditation piece. The quiet intensity emanating from Mary’s posture and the scholarly backdrop make it ideal for creating a sanctuary within any room—a space dedicated to thought, contemplation, or quiet gathering. Owning this work allows one to connect with the profound spiritual currents of the Italian Renaissance, bringing an air of timeless grace and intellectual depth into your modern life.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Aug. 28, 2026

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Filippino Lippi

    Born in Prato, Italy

    Early Life and Training

    Born: April 1457, Prato, Italy

    Died: April 1504

    Parents: Fra Filippo Lippi (painter) and Lucrezia Buti

    Filippino was the illegitimate son of a renowned painter.

    Early training under his father laid the foundation for his artistic career.

    Artistic Career and Development

    Early Period (1475-1480): Initial works, such as Madonnas, showed a less refined style. These were initially attributed to an anonymous artist known as "amico di Sandro."

    Evolution (1480-1485): Development of a more personal and effective approach in works like the Journeys of Tobias.

    Maturity (1485-1504): Mastery of the High Renaissance style, exemplified by The Apparition of Christ to the Virgin.

    Major Works and Collaborations

    Collaboration with Perugino, Ghirlandaio, and Botticelli on frescoes at Lorenzo de' Medici’s villa.

    Completion of Masaccio's unfinished decoration in the Brancacci Chapel alongside Masolino.

    Notable works include: The Coronation of the Virgin, Tobias and the Angel, St Jerome, and Scene from the Life of St Thomas Aquinas.

    Influences and Artistic Style

    Early Influences: Sandro Botticelli, Fra Filippo Lippi.

    Style Characteristics: Animated form and line, warm colorism, detailed landscapes, expressive figures, and a blend of perspective geometry with intimate interiors.

    Roman Antiquities: Studies after Roman antiquities during his time in Rome influenced his work, incorporating an antique vocabulary into his art.

    Historical Significance and Legacy

    A leading Florentine exponent of the tradition of great fresco cycles.

    His influence on the High Renaissance is undeniable.

    Works are found in museums worldwide, including the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

    Known for bridging the gap between earlier Renaissance styles and the emerging High Renaissance aesthetic.

    Museum

    Museo Civico

    On show in San Gimignano, Italy

    A Journey Through Time and Art at Museo Civico, San Gimignano

    Discover the captivating

    Museo Civico

    in the heart of San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy. Housed within the magnificent

    Palazzo Comunale

    (Town Hall), this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and artistic heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    History & Architecture

    The Palazzo Comunale itself dates back to the late 13th century, evolving over time with expansions in the 14th century. Originally built on earlier foundations between 1289 and 1298, its architecture showcases arched windows, a stone lower level, and brick upper sections. The building has served as San Gimignano’s civic center since the 13th century. Don't miss climbing the

    Torre Grossa

    (Great Tower), completed in 1300, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

    Collection Highlights

    The Museo Civico’s collection is a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts. Key highlights include:

    Frescoes by Memmo di Filippuccio & Lippo Memmi:

    Admire stunning fresco cycles that adorn the palace walls, showcasing masterful artistry.

    Paintings from Florentine & Sienese Schools:

    Explore a diverse collection of paintings by renowned artists such as Coppo di Marcovaldo, Benozzo Gozzoli, Filippino Lippi, Il Sodoma and Pinturicchio.

    Sala del Consiglio (Council Hall):

    This grand hall features Lippo Memmi’s impressive ‘Maestà’, commissioned in 1317, inspired by Simone Martini's work in Siena. It is also known as the “Sala di Dante” due to a visit from the famous poet.

    Courtyard Frescoes:

    Discover intriguing frescoes and sculpted coats of arms decorating the courtyard, built in 1323.

    What Makes it Unique?

    The Museo Civico isn’t just an art museum; it's a living testament to San Gimignano’s civic history. The integration of artistic masterpieces within the functioning Palazzo Comunale creates a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can trace the evolution of the town through its art, architecture, and historical artifacts. It offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and understand the life and culture of medieval Tuscany.

    Plan Your Visit

    The Museo Civico is an essential stop for anyone visiting San Gimignano. Allow ample time to explore both the museum’s collections and the Palazzo Comunale itself, including a climb up the Torre Grossa for unforgettable views.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Virgin from the Annunciation

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Lippi, Filippino. Virgin from the Annunciation. 1483, Museo Civico. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/
    APA
    Lippi, Filippino (1483). Virgin from the Annunciation [Painting]. Museo Civico. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/
    Chicago
    Filippino Lippi. Virgin from the Annunciation. 1483. Museo Civico. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/
    Harvard
    Lippi, Filippino (1483) Virgin from the Annunciation. Museo Civico. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/filippino-lippi-virgin-from-the-annunciation-8XZPPR-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Aug. 28, 2026

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: annunciation, virgin mary, prayer. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Madonna and Child (1483), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. High Renaissance: The brief peak when balance, depth and anatomy came together — Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Aug. 28, 2026

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Virgin from the Annunciation — Filippino Lippi

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. Who is the artist credited with painting the 'Virgin from the Annunciation'?

      • A Sandro Botticelli
      • B Perugino
      • C Filippino Lippi

    2. 2. Approximately what year was the 'Virgin from the Annunciation' painted?

      • A 1475
      • B 1483
      • C 1504

    3. 3. What is a prominent detail visible in the background of the painting?

      • A A garden scene with fountains
      • B A window and a bookshelf filled with books
      • C Architectural ruins

    4. 4. The subject matter of the painting depicts:

      • A The Assumption of Mary
      • B Mary praying during the Annunciation
      • C Christ's Coronation

    5. 5. During which period did Filippino Lippi reach his artistic maturity?

      • A 1475-1480
      • B 1480-1485
      • C 1485-1504

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1B · 2A · 3A · 4A · 5B