(Deceased.) This painting was a labor of love to the artist, and painted for his studio, where it remained several years, visited by artists and connoisseurs. It is conceded to be the finest, as it is undoubtedly the most important of the artist's works, ably representing his great technical ability, his strength combined with beauty as a colorist, and his masterly management of light and shade. The kneeling Virgin is eminently graceful and dignified; her drapery and that of the pries Dieux exhibit exquisite technique. The figure of the announcing angel is posed with infinite grace, and the light effect is brilliant, which suggests the immediate presence of the Holy Ghost. [P. 34; the words "pries Dieux" appear in italics in the catalogue.]
Industrial Exposition. 1874. Art Catalogue. Chicago.
