Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Artwork

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)

Master of the E-Series Tarocchi , 1467

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467
The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The Angel of the Eighth Sphere is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe.

Accession no.
1924.432.48
Credit line
Dudley P. Allen Fund

About this work

Overview

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe. It is one of 50 prints in a set that represents the celestial hierarchy.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a winged figure holding a starry sphere, embodying the eighth sphere or firmament in Ptolemaic cosmology. This celestial layer was believed to contain fixed stars revolving around the Earth, separating the planetary spheres from the divine Prima Causa.

Technique & Style

The engraving features soft lines and delicate shading, creating a three-dimensional effect. The angel is shown standing on a cloud, wearing a long robe and holding a scroll, though the sphere is the primary focus.

Context

The Tarocchi series maps the universe according to classical astronomy, including the seven known planets and three celestial spheres beyond them. The eighth sphere is the farthest layer of the heavens, bridging the Earth and the divine.

Astrology (from the Tarocchi, series C: Liberal Arts, #29)
Astrology (from the Tarocchi, series C: Liberal Arts, #29), Master of the E-Series Tarocchi

Artist & collection

MORE BY MASTER OF THE E-SERIES TAROCCHI

SAME SUBJECT

Similarity 98 percent
This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)?

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48) was painted by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi in 1467.

Where can I see The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)?

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)?

The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48) is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48)?

Museum-quality prints of The Angel of the Eighth Sphere (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #48) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.