The Annunciation (c. 1440–1445)[1] is an Early Renaissance fresco by Fra Angelico in the Convent of San Marco in Florence, Italy.

When Cosimo de' Medici rebuilt the convent, he commissioned Fra Angelico to decorate the walls with intricate frescos.

The staircase has undergone many renovations including modifications to the window which affects the amount of light entering the convent.

With its placement at the top of the stairs Fra Angelico sought to bring the scene into the convent and into the daily lives of the monks.

Gold leaf and azurite were reserved for Cosimo de' Medici in his private cell and for the frescos in public spaces in the corridors.

"[6] The gold leaf and azurite were extravagant materials and were a luxury only given to Cosimo because he was a wealthy patron.

Gabriel is seen clad in pink and gold with multi-coloured wings stooping down with his gaze fixed on Mary.

Running across the loggia at the bottom of the fresco there is an inscription that instructs the viewer: "Virginis Intacte Cvm Veneris Ante Figvram Preterevndo Cave Ne Sileatvr Ave." It means when you come before the image of the Ever-Virgin take care that you do not neglect to say an Ave.[8] This was a daily reminder for the monks to pray.