Lot Essay
Comparison of the present picture with an Annunciation of 1552 by Pieter Pourbus in the Musées Communaux, Gouda, demonstrates a remarkable similarity in composition and architectural elements (see P. Huvenne, catalogue of the exhibition, Pierre Pourbus, Musée Memling, Bruges, 29 June-30 Sept. 1984, pp. 140-3, no. 3, illustrated). Although the figures are too different stylistically to be by Pourbus, the compositional affinities between the two pictures - the almost identical vase of lilies, the doorway leading through to a room beyond, the very similar columned bed, as well as the placement of the figures - indicates an artist active in Bruges at about the same time.