Archangel Drawing a Sword
1825–86
Medium
Watercolor over black chalk, gold paint; framing line in black chalk with reddish-orange watercolor along the top and right edges; two arched lines impressed in paper, lower left
Dimensions
17 15/16 x 14 5/8 in. (45.5 x 37.2 cm)
Classification
Drawings
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1964
Accession Number
64.193.1
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the dramatic *Archangel Drawing a Sword* by Eduard Jakob von Steinle (1825–86), a captivating 19th-century drawing that evokes the celestial power of divine warriors. Created during the Romantic era, this work captures an archangel—likely the warrior St. Michael—in a moment of poised action, sword gleaming as he prepares for battle against evil. Measuring nearly 18 by 15 inches, it exemplifies Steinle's mastery of religious themes, drawing from medieval and Renaissance traditions to inspire awe and spiritual reflection. Steinle's technique shines through his innovative use of watercolo...