The artwork titled “St. Michael” is a religious painting executed by the renowned artist Raphael between circa 1503 and 1505. The medium used is oil on panel, and it belongs to the High Renaissance art movement. It measures 29.5 x 25.5 cm and is currently housed in the prestigious Louvre Museum in Paris, France. This artwork illustrates a moment of triumph and divine intervention, consonant with the sensibilities and techniques of the High Renaissance period.
In the artwork, St. Michael the Archangel is portrayed as a youthful and dignified figure, dressed in a blue tunic with classical armor elements, suggesting both his martial role and heavenly grace. He is depicted in the act of subduing Satan, represented here as a monstrous hybrid creature sprawled beneath his feet. St. Michael’s pose is both dynamic and controlled, demonstrating the power and poise befitting an angelic warrior of God.
The angel’s large, somber wings are spread wide, adding to the sense of movement and majesty. His face maintains a serene expression, while his gaze is directed downward upon his vanquished foe, underscoring the righteousness of his victory. The sword he wields is raised high above his head, reinforcing the decisive nature of this spiritual combat.
In the background, a fiery landscape with dark clouds stretches toward a city’s silhouette, providing a contrasting backdrop that emphasizes the clash between good and evil. Smaller figures can be seen in this background, as well as various creatures scattered around the central action, each contributing to the overarching theme of the battle between the celestial and infernal realms. The overall composition masterfully blends realism with spiritual symbolism, characteristic of Raphael’s work and the High Renaissance striving for ideal beauty and harmony.
