Bartolomé Estebán Murillo – Archangel Michael Hurls the Devil into the Abyss Kunsthistorisches Museum

The composition presents a dramatic confrontation between celestial and demonic forces. A figure, clearly representing divine power, dominates the scene, poised in mid-action as he casts down a struggling form into what appears to be a void. The central figure is rendered with idealized features – youthful, muscular, and possessing an expression of resolute determination rather than overt aggression. He wears ornate armor, suggesting both martial prowess and elevated status, while a flowing red drape adds dynamism and visual interest to his posture. Large, feathered wings extend from his back, emphasizing his otherworldly nature.
Below him lies the fallen figure, contorted in agony and defeat. The artist has depicted this being with grotesque features – a distorted face, clawed hands, and a body seemingly dissolving into shadow. This stark contrast between the upright, radiant posture of the celestial figure and the chaotic sprawl of the demonic one reinforces the narrative of triumph over evil.
The background is largely obscured by swirling darkness, punctuated by hints of light emanating from above. The use of chiaroscuro – the dramatic interplay of light and dark – heightens the emotional intensity of the scene, drawing attention to the central figures and contributing to a sense of spiritual drama. The limited color palette, dominated by reds, golds, and browns, further enhances this effect.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of divine justice and redemption. While the act depicted is violent, it’s presented as necessary for the restoration of order. The fallen figures suffering evokes a sense of pity, hinting at the potential for repentance or the consequences of rejecting divine grace. The upward gaze of the celestial figure suggests an unwavering faith and connection to a higher power, while the darkness below symbolizes not only defeat but also the unknown depths of spiritual struggle. The overall effect is one of powerful symbolism, conveying a complex narrative about good versus evil within a framework of religious belief.