The Archangel Michael and the Rebel Angels

Image credit: Glasgow Life Museums

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Notes

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The painting shows the Archangel Saint Michael, in the dress of a Roman warrior, driving rebel angels out of heaven. These angels had chosen to side with Lucifer, once an angel himself but now pure evil, and known as the Devil, or Satan. He is often depicted as a dragon in the context of his battle with Saint Michael. The subject was taken from the biblical Book of Revelation. This was a popular painting, and several versions are known to have been made. This work is painted in the Mannerist style. This late Renaissance style was much influenced by the work of Michelangelo, and often features nudes in complex poses, as here, as well as bright colours and elongated proportions. The importance of this painting can be related to some explicit classical references typical of Renaissance work; for example the anatomically-detailed nudes and Saint Michael's costume.

Title

The Archangel Michael and the Rebel Angels

Date

c.1592–1593

Medium

oil on copper

Measurements

H 47.8 x W 41.8 cm

Accession number

153

Acquisition method

Archibald McLellan Collection, purchased, 1856

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8AG Scotland

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