Lot 3
Egypt, Late Antique / Coptic culture, ca. 6th to 7th century CE. A rare and finely carved limestone relief depicting the Archangel Michael, one of the most venerated figures of early Christianity. The archangel is shown standing frontally, rendered in bold high relief with large almond-shaped eyes and a solemn expression. His draped tunic and mantle are crisply chiseled, with folds radiating in rhythmic symmetry across his body. Behind him, traces of his spread wings emerge, symbolizing his celestial authority as protector and messenger of God. In his left hand, Michael holds a globus cruciger, the orb and cross that embodies Christ's dominion over the world and the heavenly order. His right hand grasps a vertical staff or scepter, the emblem of divine power and guardianship. The composition reflects the early Byzantine and Coptic iconographic tradition, in which archangels appear as both warriors and attendants to the divine throne. Size: 4" L x 5.8" W x 11" H (10.2 cm x 14.7 cm x 27.9 cm); 12.6" H (32 cm) on included custom stand.
This relief would likely have been part of an architectural program in a Coptic church or monastery, perhaps set into a wall or niche. It embodies the synthesis of Roman imperial visual language with Christian theology: the globus cruciger echoing symbols of imperial rule, reimagined here as Christ's sovereignty, while the archangel assumes the role of guardian of the faithful.
Carved with simplified yet powerful forms, the panel demonstrates the Coptic preference for clarity, spiritual symbolism, and hieratic presence over naturalism. Such images not only adorned sacred spaces but also conveyed the protective and intercessory role of Michael, who was invoked in prayer and liturgy throughout Egypt and the wider Mediterranean world.
Provenance: private Parker, Colorado, USA collection, acquired via Bruneau & Co. Auctioneers, Cranston, Rhode Island, USA; ex-5th Avenue, New York, New York, USA collection, assembled from the 1960s to 70s, purchased at The Manhattan Galleries, Inc., New York, New York, USA on May 15, 1974
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#196620
- Condition: Fragment of a larger piece. Weathering to surface with chips and abrasions as show, all commensurate with age. Nice remining detail with scattered earthen and mineral deposits throughout.
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