Saint Michael, Master of Belmonte (Spanish, Aragon, active ca. 1460–90), Metropolitan Museum
of Art (New York) ■ The
Archangel Michael is portrayed as a saint of the Church Militant. Armed with a
coat of mail, a dagger, shield, and lance, he symbolizes Christ triumphant over
evil. The demon at his feet is the Antichrist, whom Christ has conquered and
cast out of heaven. The youthful beauty and sumptuous raiment of St. Michael
combine with the rich courtly setting to form a stark visual contrast between
the strength and splendor of the Church and the monstrous, defeated demon ■