Artwork
The Angel of the Ninth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #49)
The Angel of the Ninth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #49) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The Angel of the Ninth Sphere is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe.
About this work
Overview
The Angel of the Ninth Sphere is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe. It depicts a robed angel floating in a starry sky, holding a glowing orb and pointing upwards.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving personifies the Primo Mobile, or Prime Mover, as an angel representing the ninth and outermost material sphere of the universe. This sphere was believed to be in direct contact with the First Cause, or God, and was thought to be crystalline and invisible.
Technique & Style
The image is characterized by its use of engraving techniques to create a sense of depth and atmosphere, with the angel appearing to float against a starry background.
Context
The engraving is part of a series of images that represent the seven planets and three celestial spheres of the classical universe, linking earthly life to the heavens.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the E-Series Tarocchi
Master of the E-Series Tarocchi (b. 1400) was an Italian artist.
The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)
Mercury (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #42)
Luna (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #41)
Astrology (from the Tarocchi, series C: Liberal Arts, #29)
Sun (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #44)
Genius of Time (from the Tarocchi, series B: Cosmic Principles & Virtues, #32)
Hope (from the Tarocchi, series B: Cosmic Principles & Virtues, #39)
Jupiter (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #46)
Genius of the Sun (from the Tarocchi, series B: Cosmic Principles & Virtues, #31)