Question

In the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin, we see Mary's earthly husband, Joseph the carpenter, boring a hole into a slab of wood. He is symbolically making a device to keep the devil from interfering with the Annunciation. What is Joseph making?

Answer 1

Joseph is making a 'devil's snare' in the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin, Joseph the carpenter is shown boring a hole into a slab of wood. He is making a mousetrap-like device known as a 'devil's snare,' which is a symbol of protection from the devil interfering with the Annunciation.