Michaël en de val van de opstandige engelen 1680 - 1735

This is an anonymous line engraving of 'Michael and the Fall of the Rebel Angels' at the Rijksmuseum. Notice the turbulent composition, where light and shadow carve out forms in dramatic relief. The battle unfolds as a dance of bodies, with angels positioned above, and demons contorted in their descent. The entire scene pivots around Michael's shield. Its circular form anchors the chaos, emblazoned with the radiant letters 'IHS', a symbol functioning as a visual declaration of divine power. Through a semiotic lens, we can interpret the image as a study of hierarchical power and the consequences of defying established order. The composition reinforces a cosmic hierarchy, with the divine forces literally 'above' the chaotic mass of the fallen. Ultimately, this artwork uses dramatic formal techniques to illustrate a potent narrative about authority and rebellion. It invites continuous questioning about how these structures of power are visually represented and understood.