Capital with Bust of the Archangel Michael
Dublin Core
Title
Capital with Bust of the Archangel Michael
Subject
Archangel Michael
Description
This marble capital features the Archangel Michael holding a scepter and orb. The winged angel can be identified by inscription on the left side of the abacus (the upper portion of the capital). The sharp edges indicate it was probably found in the corner of a church interior. Michael is also dressed in the clothes of the Emperor, consisting of the divetesion (tunic) and himation (cloak) as well as raised details suggestive of the jewels and pearls of imperial dress. This was an effective way to associate the Emperor with important holy religious figures. Similar sculptures have been found in Constantinople dating around the twelfth or thirteenth century.
Source
Eastern Mediterranean
Publisher
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Date
1250-1300 CE
Contributor
Grace Luzcando
Rights
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Relation
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/466108
Format
Marble, 25.4 x 17.1 x 10.6 cm
Language
Greek
Type
Capital Bust
Identifier
1983.167
Collection
Citation
“Capital with Bust of the Archangel Michael,” Byzantine Philly, accessed June 19, 2025, https://byzantinephilly.lcdss.reclaim.hosting/items/show/17.