In this artwork, how is the Symbolism of Anne's gesture discussed?
Saint Anne of Faras is the only known depiction of this saint making the gesture of placing a finger on her lips. There are several interpretations of the symbolism of this gesture. It may be a command to remain quiet and silent. It may relate to the "God's silence", in which, according to Ignatius of Antioch three mysteries related to Mary took place: a miraculous conception, virginity and the birth of the Messiah.  Another theory suggests that the gesture relates to prayer. In Egyptian and Palestinian monastic groups and some heretical groups, a custom existed of praying quietly while holding a finger of the right hand on one's lips; it was believed this gesture protected people from evil, which might otherwise prevail in human hearts during prayer.
Messiah Palestinian heretical Saint Anne Faras Ignatius of Antioch monastic