Artwork

Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil

Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil, by Porfirie Șarlea, unspecified, 1870
Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil, by Porfirie Șarlea, unspecified, 1870

Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil is an unspecified painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Porfirie Șarlea. It dates from 1870 and is held in the collection of the Alba Iulia Orthodox Archdiocese.

About this work

Overview

This painting, created by Porfirie Șarlea in 1870, is a representation of the Virgin and Child flanked by archangels. It is housed at the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a woman, likely the Virgin Mary, holding a child, surrounded by a golden halo. The figures are dressed in dark robes with red and gold accents, suggesting a sacred or reverent theme.

Technique & Style

The painting features a simple, calm style with a focus on bold colors such as red, gold, and blue. The border is decorated with repeating flower-like patterns, reminiscent of stained glass. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth.

History & Provenance

The painting was created in 1870 by Porfirie Șarlea and is now held at the Museum of Ethnography, indicating its cultural significance.

Artist & collection

Artist

Porfirie Șarlea

Porfirie Șarlea made religious paintings in 19th-century Moldavia. His 1858 “Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil” shows the archangels holding scrolls and swords, and his 1870 “Maica Domnului cu Pruncul” pairs the Virgin Mary…