St. Michael
Artist
Unknown Artist
(German)
Dateca. 1430-1460
MediumLimewood, painted and gilded
DimensionsObject: 50 x 29 x 16 in. (127 x 73.7 x 40.6 cm)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineMuseum purchase with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Ben B. Carrick, Dr. and Mrs. Marcus W. Orr, Dr. and Mrs. William F. Outlan, Mr. and Mrs. Downing Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Richard O. Wilson, Brooks League in memory of Margaret A. Tate
Object number84.3
CommentaryIn Revelation (12:7-9), the archangel Michael is described as the leader of heavenly armies that cast the devil out of heaven. Here, he is dressed as a warrior, and though the gilding of his armor has lost its luster with time, the masterful rendering of the buckles, hinging and lacing is apparent. In Michael’s left hand are the remnants of scales used to weigh the souls of the dead at the Last Judgement. The unpainted face at the front of the base indicates that this sculpture fitted amongst multiple figures, and the carving on Michael’s back suggests angel wings were attached. The sword blade is a modern replacement.
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