Defend us in the day of battle: the Archangel Michael in Christian art

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St. Michael the Archangel, weighing the souls of the risen dead on the Last Day. Hans Memling, the Last Judgment. Late 1460s.

SANCTE Michael Archangele, defende nos in proelio, contra nequitiam et insidias diaboli esto praesidium. Imperet illi Deus, supplices deprecamur: tuque, Princeps militiae caelestis, Satanam aliosque spiritus malignos, qui ad perditionem animarum pervagantur in mundo, divina virtute, in infernum detrude. Amen.

The image of the Archangel Michael has ancient roots, reach into the earliest centuries - and events - in Christian history. After Christ and the Theotokos, St. Michael the Archangel is near the top of the list of most depicted figures in Christian art both east and west.

This artistic presence reflects his significance in Christian belief. He's not just a heavenly warrior, but a powerful protector, a leader of angels, and a key figure in the battle between good and evil. By depicting him in art, Christians have sought to not only honour him but also to visually embody the heavenly battles and divine justice he represents.

Byzantine icons typically portray him with stern features and large wings, often trampling a serpent, representing Satan. In Western art, he might be a knight in shining armour or even carry the instruments of Christ's crucifixion. Beyond the warrior, Michael is also depicted as a weigher of souls, symbolizing his role in the Last Judgement. Whether wielding a sword or balancing scales, Michael's artistic legacy reflects his multifaceted nature as a protector, defender, and symbol of divine justice.

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Today’s featured work is this figure, a detail from a painting I did illustrating Psalm 83, Quam dilecta. The original was egg tempera and gold leaf on a gesso panel. I’ve got him in the shop here as a print on a wood panel that imitates the style of a classic Byzantine icon. But if you prefer you can have him on paper or canvas as well. Drop me a DM if interested.

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