Textile: Epimanikia with Annunciation

Work Number: 580283
Title: Textile: Epimanikia with Annunciation
Description: Embroidery, 2 pieces

Images 1 & 2: The Archangel Michael occupies the center of the textile. His face has been slightly damaged. He is placed beneath a ciborium (canopy) that is not quite large enough for him. Michael appears as if he is striding forwards and reaching out of the scene perhaps towards Mary who appears in this same set of Epimanikiai. The columns appear to be corinthian and the canopy has been adorned with a web-like pattern of intersecting diamond motifs. On either side of the canopy are vines with flowers nearly equal in size with Michael and the architectural setting. A floral motif borders the scene. Michael's name has been stitched just above the canopy. It is curious that Michael's name appears at all as it is the angel Gabriel that comes to Mary in scenes of the Annunciation to deliver the news that she will bear the son of God.

Images 3 & 4: The Virgin is situated in a nearly identical setting to images one and two. She is flanked by two tables or columnar stands holding a pot with a flower (lilies?). Her monogram (ΜΡ ΘΝ) is just above the canopy.
Medium: Textile
Condition: Damage to face of angel Michael
Subject: Annunciation of the Virgin, SEE Mary, Blessed Virgin, Saint, Annunciation; Mary, Blessed Virgin, Saint; Michael (Archangel)
Provenance: Gallery, case 8