Hidden symbolism in Uffizi's 'Annunciation' revealed by art historian

Art historian Massimo Giontella has unraveled the meaning behind 'L'Annunciazione' housed in the Uffizi, which is credited to Antonio del Pollaiolo with contributions from Leonardo da Vinci. Radiographic examinations have uncovered a pentimento: originally, the Archangel Gabriel was depicted looking down at the Ara, but this was later adjusted to gaze upwards at Mary. A shadow cast by Gabriel on the grass signifies Lorenzo de' Medici's involvement in the conflict against the Turks, bolstered by an iris among lilies and financing of 20,000 ducats. Gabriel's finger indicates a laurel tree in tribute to Lorenzo, while a federician eagle symbolizes Federico da Montefeltro. Commissioned in 1481, the artwork remained at Rusciano until 1498, when it was sold to Carlo Frescobaldi and later passed to the Gondi family until the early 18th century.