The Incarnation

by Pedro de Córdoba

If we focus on the compositional aspect, we can appreciate how the work is structured around two different distances. The first is characterised by having in the foreground a complex image of eight figures, in descending size towards the centre. Thus, the representations of Saint John the Baptist and Canon Juan Muñoz appear as a reminder of the original dedication of the chapel and its original founder. Next to them is the second representee, Diego Sánchez, who carried out the commission for the panel and who is taller. After him are Santiago -who is pointing to the benefactor with his hand-, Saint Ivo of Kermartin and Saint Barbara. After the Baptist, are Saint Lawrence and Saint Pio I.

In the background we see the moment of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary by Archangel Gabriel. We also see the presence of the Holy Spirit and Eternal Father, who is represented through the male figure looking out of the window. The scene takes place in a domestic room, an ideal setting for the painter to demonstrate his ability to produced detailed works, focused on reflecting the material qualities of the objects.