New World, Spanish Colonial, Mexico, ca. 18th century CE. A very large and framed, oil on canvas depicting Michael the Archangel slaying a demon. St. Michael is depicted with an angelic rosy complexion, a golden curly coiffure adorned with a blue bow, and a rather calm demeanor in contrast to the writhing, dark- complexioned, horned, demon below with his bulging eyes, clawed hands and feet, writhing gestures, and contorted pose. Michael is the archangel who leads God's armies against Satan in the Book of Revelation, and it is he who defeats Satan during the war in heaven. Note how Michael descends from the blue skies of the celestial realm to the smoke and flames of Satan's hell. Saint Michael assumed his dual role of general of heaven's angels and protector of the Church Militant victorious in the battle with, "That old serpent called the Devil and Satan." (Revelation 12: 7-9) Size: 48.5" L x 32.35" W (123.2 cm x 82.2 cm); 54.125" L x 38.5" W (137.5 cm x 97.8 cm) including frame.

The artist's technique is quite sophisticated. Both Michael and the demon are delineated with skillfully modeled anatomy; notice the musculature of their arms and legs. In addition, the artist adeptly uses foreshortening, so it appears as though Michael's elbow and upper body as well as the intimidating spear he is about to strike are closer to the viewer than they actually are. What's more, both linear and atmospheric perspective are masterfully achieved so as to create a convincing depth of field. Finally, the attention to the fine-line details visible in Michael's wavy, sun-kissed locks, the plumage of his raised wings, the coils of the green serpentine tail and twisted horns of the demon; the contrasting textures of skin, hair, metal, fabric, and wood; as well as the atmospheric effects of clear blue sky above, smoke and fire below - are all quite masterful.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#138252

Two visible punctures to canvas - one through St. Michael's wing and another just above his sword. The painting shows expected age wear with some darkening, staining, fading/losses to pigment, and repairs. Nice craquelure. Verso of the canvas has darkened over time and shows three patched repairs. Stretcher bars seem newer and were probably replaced. Frame shows surface wear with scuffs and scratches to gilded finish. Back and sides of frame show wear and stains commensurate with age and an area of repair.