Sermon and Deeds of the Antichrist Luca Signorelli (c.1445-1523)

The composition unfolds within a shallow architectural space, dominated by a monumental classical structure that recedes into atmospheric perspective. A large crowd populates the foreground, their expressions and gestures conveying a complex range of emotions – fear, awe, distress, and even apparent delight. The figures are densely packed, creating a sense of chaotic movement and overwhelming spectacle.
At the upper left corner, a figure descends from above, enveloped in a fiery halo. This individual appears to be falling or being cast down, his posture suggesting both struggle and defeat. Rays of light emanate from this central figure, illuminating portions of the crowd below. The descent is framed by foliage, which adds a layer of naturalistic detail to an otherwise theatrical scene.
The architectural structure in the background presents itself as a grand temple or palace, constructed with classical columns and pediments. A procession of figures moves towards it, seemingly drawn by its imposing presence. This building serves as a visual anchor for the composition, suggesting power, authority, and perhaps even false grandeur.
A significant portion of the foreground is occupied by individuals prostrate on the ground, their bodies contorted in postures of supplication or despair. A small fire burns near the center of the scene, adding to the overall sense of drama and potential destruction. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and reds – punctuated by occasional splashes of brighter colors like pinks and yellows within the clothing of certain figures.
The subtexts embedded in this work appear to concern themes of divine judgment, deception, and the consequences of misguided faith. The descending figure likely represents a fallen entity or a symbol of corruption, while the classical architecture could symbolize worldly power that is ultimately destined for ruin. The prostrate figures suggest submission, either voluntary or forced, while the fire might represent purification through suffering or destructive chaos. The overall effect is one of impending doom and moral reckoning, conveyed through a dynamic arrangement of figures and symbolic imagery.