Artwork
Abaddon and the Angels
Abaddon and the Angels is an oil painting by the Russian Icon artist Fyodor Zavyalov. It dates from 1843 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.
About this work
Overview
Fyodor Zavyalov’s 1843 oil painting titled Abaddon and the Angels is part of the collection at Moscow’s Tretyakov Gallery. The work presents a dramatic celestial tableau in which a single angel, clad in a red sash and bearing a sword, descends from the heavens while two other angels observe from a cloud above.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure represents Abaddon, a biblical entity often associated with destruction. By portraying him in a moment of descent, Zavyalov emphasizes the tension between divine authority and chaotic force, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay of judgment and mercy within the heavenly realm.
Technique & Style
Zavyalov employs strong chiaroscuro, contrasting illuminated forms against a deep, shadowed background. The bright white of the angel’s wings and the gleam of the sword emerge sharply, creating a three‑dimensional effect that heightens the scene’s emotional intensity. The composition balances dynamic movement with a controlled, academic handling of oil.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1843, the painting entered the Tretyakov Gallery’s holdings, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the 19th‑century Russian interest in biblical and historical subjects, aligning Zavyalov’s work with the era’s broader artistic currents.
Artist & collection
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