Michael the Archangel

Item number 3188/5 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Description

Gouache paint on thin cardboard. The archangel Michael fills the picture, facing front, feet turned to the sides, hands gripping a raised sword and striped scabbard. His head is large with prominent eyes, brow and nose, and a multi-coloured halo. Figure wears an elaborate robe and armour with decorative stripes and circular patterns. Large wings show behind and above his shoulders, with fine patterning in dots, zigzags and stripes. A border has been painted around the image at the edges of the cardboard in dark orange and grey.

Narrative

This painting depicts the Archangel Michael as a holy warrior, reflecting his role as the defeater of evil. Michael the Archangel is believed to provide protection and miracles to his devotees, as an intermediary between God and his believers. The use of cardboard indicates this painting was likely created to be affordable and portable for its owner as a personal religious icon.