The Angel symbol of the Evangelist Saint Matthew, central Italy around1350

This limestone relief, dated about 1350 and coming from central Italy, reveals an angel whose halo around the head emphasizes its sacred and divine character. The scroll he holds in his hand can bring this figure closer to the Angel symbol of the evangelist Saint Matthew. Indeed, it is represented with a book or a scroll to symbolize the Gospel created by the four gospels (Saint Matthew, Saint Luke, Saint John, Saint Mark). This is also to emphasize his divine mission of witnessing and transmitting the divine Word. This is why the reverential posture of the Angel illustrates his role as a messenger and thus symbolizes the intercession between the divine and human.

It is therefore probable that this relief could have been made to adorn a religious building, allowing the teaching of the evangelical symbols to the faithful. In this sense, a similar relief representing the Angel is preserved at the Louvre and is similar to a series of other reliefs, including an illustrious Saint Mark and his attribute the Lion (https://collections.louvre.fr/ark:/53355/cl010089234)

The relief is in line with the Italian Gothic tradition, given the refinement of its execution. The emphasis is specifically on facial expressiveness, with particular attention paid to details such as the folds of the garment or the texture of the wings. These elements give elegance to the sculpted religious figures while ensuring visual clarity for the faithful. In addition, the use of limestone was common in religious art at that time, with the idea of creating lasting devotional works.

Height: 42 cm
Width: 41 cm
Depth: 15 cm