MASTER OF RISEN ANGELS – St. Martin and the beggar; Fall of the risen angels. Avignon? Louvre (Paris)

The diptych presents a striking juxtaposition of compassion and cosmic upheaval. On the left panel, a figure with long hair and a beard, clad in a crimson cloak over dark garments, is depicted sharing his bread with another individual whose face is turned away, obscuring their identity. The gesture is one of quiet generosity; the man’s posture suggests humility and empathy. A golden halo surrounds his head, indicating sanctity. The background behind him is rendered in gold leaf, creating a luminous, otherworldly atmosphere that isolates the scene from any specific earthly setting.
The right panel offers a dramatic contrast. Here we see a tumultuous scene of falling figures against a backdrop of fiery orange and red hues. These forms appear to be descending from an elevated position, their bodies contorted in expressions of anguish or despair. The composition is chaotic; there’s a sense of uncontrolled movement and catastrophic loss. A central figure, seated on a throne within the upper portion of this panel, appears to observe the descent with a detached air. This figures presence suggests divine authority overseeing a momentous event.
The gold background here too contributes to an overall feeling of transcendence, but in this instance it amplifies the drama and scale of the fall. The contrast between the two panels is significant. One portrays individual kindness and human connection; the other illustrates a grand, possibly theological, narrative involving loss and divine judgment.
Subtly, the diptych seems to explore themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of transgression. The act of sharing bread can be interpreted as an allusion to the Eucharist or a broader symbol of charity. Conversely, the falling figures might represent fallen angels, symbolizing rebellion against divine order and its subsequent repercussions. The anonymity of the recipient in the left panel invites contemplation about universal compassion and the potential for grace extended to all. The overall effect is one of profound emotional depth, prompting reflection on human morality within a larger cosmic framework.