Who painted Kopf des Erzengels Michael?

Kopf des Erzengels Michael was painted by Ercole de' Roberti.

Where can I see Kopf des Erzengels Michael?

Kopf des Erzengels Michael is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Kopf des Erzengels Michael?

Kopf des Erzengels Michael is associated with Early Renaissance.

Artwork

Kopf des Erzengels Michael

Ercole de' Roberti

Kopf des Erzengels Michael is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Ercole de' Roberti. It is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Ercole de'Roberti’s 1498 work, Kopf des Erzengels Michael, is a small-scale religious painting that depicts the head of the archangel Michael. Executed in tempera on panel, the image is part of the collection of the Alte Pinakothek in Munich. The composition is confined to a circular frame, focusing attention on the figure’s solemn expression.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait presents Michael as a contemplative, almost human figure, his gaze directed outward, suggesting vigilance and divine authority. The archangel’s long, curled hair and modest dark collar reinforce his status as a celestial warrior while also emphasizing his role as an intercessor between the heavenly and earthly realms.

Technique & Style

De'Roberti employs a stark chiaroscuro, using a deep, unlit background to isolate the illuminated face. Subtle gradations of tone render the skin and hair with a smooth, three‑dimensional quality, while the patterned edge of the collar adds a decorative contrast. The limited palette accentuates the dramatic light‑dark interplay characteristic of late‑15th‑century Italian portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created in 1498, the painting entered the collection of the Alte Pinakothek, where it remains on display. Its attribution to Ercole de'Roberti is supported by stylistic analysis and documentary evidence linking the work to the artist’s late period, a time when he produced several devotional images for private patrons.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ercole de' Roberti

Ercole de' Roberti was born in Ferrara around 1450 and trained under the painters Cosmè Tura and Francesco del Cossa, with whom he collaborated on frescoes at the Palazzo Schifanoia in 1470.