Siete Arcangeles

19th century, Manila workshops
oil on canvas mounted on board,encased in custom frame inKamagong wood, by the late Osmundo Esguerra
16 5/8" x 12 1/8" (42 cm x 31 cm)

PROPERTY FROM THE DON EUGENIO LOPEZ JR. COLLECTION





by FLOY QUINTOS In Jewish texts, the Seven Archangels were those who, among the heavenly hosts, served and communed with God directly. Three of them we know from popular devotions, novenas and references . These are Michael, the warrior angel, Rafael, who is invoked for healing and Gabriel, God’s messenger who appeared to Mary during the Annunciation. Less popular are Jegudiel, Selaphiel, Uriel and Barachiel. All seven are depicted in this icon wearing the standard 17th century attire of angels, a doublet over a tunic, their skirts knotted at the knees to signify the urgency with which they carry out their tasks. All seven are carrying their standards and symbols. Above them hovers Mary, enthroned and carrying the Child Jesus on her knee. She is flanked by Joseph on her. right and St. Gregory on her left. The painting may have been commissioned by a patron with a special devotion to Gregory as it was not uncommon for patrons to specify the saints whom they wanted included in the pictures they ordered from painters working in ateliers specializing in religious art.