Artwork
Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil

Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil is an unspecified painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Porfirie Șarlea. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Alba Iulia Orthodox Archdiocese.
About this work
Overview
Arhanghelii Mihail și Gavriil / Sf. Nicolae is a painting created by Porfirie Șarlea in 1858, currently housed at the Museum of Ethnography.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts Saint Nicholas, identified by his halo, beard, and attire. He holds an open book in his left hand and blesses with his right, conveying a sense of calm contemplation and spiritual authority.
Technique & Style
The painting features a red robe under a green vest, set against a blue background. An orange border with floral patterns frames the image, adding a decorative element to the otherwise serene composition.
History & Provenance
Created in 1858 by Porfirie Șarlea, the painting's history prior to its current location at the Museum of Ethnography is not detailed here.
Context
As a representation of Saint Nicholas, the painting reflects the religious and cultural significance of the saint in the region, potentially indicating the artwork's role in local devotional practices.
Legacy
The painting's legacy is not extensively outlined in available information, though its preservation at the Museum of Ethnography suggests recognition of its cultural or artistic value.
Artist & collection
Artist
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…









