Saint Michael c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Jacob Neeffs' "Saint Michael," made sometime in the 17th century. It's a chaotic scene! What symbols stand out to you in this depiction? Curator: The clash of angels and demons carries immense symbolic weight. Note how Saint Michael wields his shield—a visual representation of divine protection and righteousness. Observe too, the grotesque faces of the fallen angels: distortions of what was once beautiful. Editor: So the distortion reflects their corruption? Curator: Precisely. It's a potent cultural memory, isn't it? A reminder of the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the psychological consequences of straying from divine grace. Editor: I see it now—the emotional power in those distorted images. Thanks!