Angel Holding an Olive Branch 1480

This 15th century oil painting, titled "Angel Holding an Olive Branch," was created by the renowned Early Netherlandish painter Hans Memling. This work is a quintessential example of Memling's detailed and delicate style, often used to depict religious figures. The angel, depicted with a soft, youthful face and delicate features, holds an olive branch, a traditional symbol of peace. The painting's small size, about 15.7 by 10.1 cm, suggests it may have been a devotional piece, intended for private contemplation. Memling’s use of rich color, intricate detail, and a calm, serene composition, contribute to the painting’s lasting appeal. The painting is currently housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.