161. The Archangel Michael, 11th century.

Enamel and precious stones, height: 46 cm.

Basilico di San Marco, Venice. Byzantine.

 

 

The Archangel Michael is one of the most celebrated angels and bodiless powers in the Christian religion. According to different scriptures he has interceded on behalf of humanity multiple times and is still considered as the Defender of the Faith. In scriptural history he has most often been invoked for protection from invasion of enemies, from civil war and to defeat adversaries on the battle field. Michael first appears in the Old Testament in the account of the Fall of Jericho and later in the New Testament brings salvation to the Church at Colossae, one of his most famous miracles. He is also associated with healing and has three iconic identities: the mantamados, the panormitis and the nenita.