The altarpiece was originally commissioned for the Fioravanti Chapel in the Church of San Bartolomeo and inaugurated in 1632. In 1647, the Theatines commissioned Albani to create two smaller paintings depicting episodes from the life of the Virgin (the Adoration of the Child and Joseph’s Dream), also requesting a retouch of the Annunciation. The work became famous as the Madonna of the Beautiful Angel, thanks to the beauty of the announcing angel. Albani contrasts the Madonna, almost indifferent to the announcement, with the angel who bursts into the dark room, illuminated by intense yellow shades. Behind the angel, a cloud of cherubs and putti descends from the sky in a chaotic yet joyful movement. The painting blends the naturalistic lesson of the Carracci with the soft lines and dynamism typical of the Baroque style.
It is located in the Church of Ss. Bartolomeo and Gaetano.
