Gabriel represented at the Annunciation, traditionally shown approaching or kneeling before the Virgin with a lily, sceptre, or scroll.
The Angel of the Annunciation is Gabriel represented at the moment of announcing the Incarnation to Mary. In sculpture the figure often survives as one half of a paired group, the Virgin occupying the corresponding side.
Etymology
From Latin annuntiatio, “announcement.”
Sculptor Notes
This is a figure designed across an interval. The direction of Gabriel's gaze, torso, leading knee, hand, wing, and attribute should all project toward an absent or present Virgin. A separated museum fragment can therefore retain a strong directional pull toward its lost companion.
References
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/468726; https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/464371