Saint Michael
1458
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1458
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
The painting shows Archangel Michael wearing gothic armor and a cape, preparing to strike down demons. He's the leader of the battle against Satan. Michael's story is part of medieval beliefs about angels protecting people from sin. The demons at Michael's feet are detailed, with one face leering from a devil's belly. This face looks directly at the viewer, highlighting the threat of temptation. To learn more about similar artwork, look up the technique of chiaroscuro.
