Ingres, Jean Auguste Dominique – Carton:Saint Raphael, Archangel, 1842. Drawing for a stained glass window, 210 x 92 cm Part 4 Louvre

Here we observe a vertical composition depicting a figure identified as Saint Raphael, Archangel. The work is clearly intended for stained glass, evidenced by its simplified forms and flattened perspective. The central figure stands within a deeply recessed architectural frame, creating an immediate sense of solemnity and enclosure.
The angel’s pose is one of supplication or blessing; his arms are raised in a gesture that combines humility and divine authority. His head is tilted slightly upward, reinforcing this devotional posture. The artist has rendered the figure with a classical idealization – smooth skin, regular features, and an overall impression of youthful grace. This aesthetic aligns with established traditions of portraying religious figures as embodiments of perfection.
The wings are depicted in a stylized manner, their feathers suggested rather than meticulously detailed, which is characteristic of designs intended for translation into colored glass. The drapery clings to the body, revealing its form while maintaining a sense of flowing movement. The folds are carefully arranged to create visual interest and enhance the figure’s three-dimensionality within the otherwise flat plane.
The color palette is restrained but significant. A deep blue background provides contrast against the pale flesh tones of the angel and the warm hues of his garments. Gold accents highlight the halo and decorative elements within the architectural frame, drawing attention to the divine nature of the subject. The red details in the border suggest a subtle reference to martyrdom or sacrifice.
The surrounding architecture is rendered with precision, its geometric forms contributing to the overall sense of order and stability. The inscription at the base identifies the figure, grounding the image within a specific religious context.
Subtly, the work conveys a message of hope and divine intervention. The angel’s posture suggests both vulnerability and strength, implying that even in moments of adversity, spiritual guidance is available. The designs simplicity and clarity are likely intended to facilitate easy recognition and understanding when viewed from a distance within a liturgical setting. The overall effect is one of quiet reverence and idealized beauty, characteristic of the Neoclassical style adapted for religious purposes.