Artwork

Ærkeengelen Michael ved Helvedes Port med sværd i hånden

Ærkeengelen Michael ved Helvedes Port med sværd i hånden, by Unknown, unspecified, 1824
Ærkeengelen Michael ved Helvedes Port med sværd i hånden, by Unknown, unspecified, 1824

Ærkeengelen Michael ved Helvedes Port med sværd i hånden is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created around 1824 by 32019_person, this artwork is housed at the Museum of Ethnography.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1824 by 32019_person, this artwork is housed at the Museum of Ethnography. It depicts a dramatic confrontation between a figure wielding a sword and a monstrous creature, set against a chaotic backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The central subject is Archangel Michael, identifiable by the sword in hand, battling a hybrid animal-demon creature at the Gates of Hell. The scene symbolizes the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Technique & Style

The painting employs chiaroscuro, characterized by strong contrasts between dark outlines and light shading, creating a dramatic, shadowy atmosphere. The artist's use of billowing cloaks and twisted forms adds to the dynamic, emotionally charged composition.

History & Provenance

Dating to circa 1824, the work is attributed to 32019_person. Its current location is the Museum of Ethnography, though the full provenance history is not detailed here.

Context

While the specific inspirations are not outlined, the depiction of Archangel Michael in battle reflects common religious themes of the time, often explored in European art. The barefoot portrayal of Michael is an unusual detail in such combat scenes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known