Description
Grisaille Window with Annunciation to the Virgin
Delaporte no. 19, Deremble-Manhes no. 26B
This window contains the Annunciation to the Virgin (Luke 1:26-8). The angel stands at left. He has a halo and holds a scroll with the words "AVE MARIA GRATIA PLENA." His other hand is in a pointing gesture.
Mary (haloed) stands at right. Behind her is an elaborate armchair with architectural motifs. She holds a book (spine downward) in one hand and gestures toward the angel with the other. Her face was replaced in the 16th century.
Between Mary and the Angel is a vase with lilies.
The borders of the window alternate between yellow fleurs de lis on a blue background and elaborate chain-like geometric forms. Delaporte says these are components of the coats of arms of Navarre and the French Royal Family. These houses had been interrelated since the marriage of King Phillip the Fair of France to Jeanne of Navarre in 1284. Delaporte believes that the donor of this window was the gift of Queen Blanche of Navarre ca 1350.
The window was restored in 1918.
Subject
Cathédrale de Chartres--Pictorial works.;Church decoration and ornament--France--Chartres--Pictorial works.;Church architecture--France--Chartres--Pictorial works.;Christian art and symbolism--France--Chartres--Medieval, 500-1500--Pictorial works.
