Head of An Angel c. 1690

Editor: Here we have the "Head of An Angel," crafted around 1690 by an anonymous artist, residing here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Carved from wood, this Baroque piece has such a serene, almost melancholic aura. The downward gaze and the soft curls give it an ethereal feel. What's your take on this? Curator: Ethereal is spot on, I think. The grain of the wood, you know, it isn't hidden, but almost celebrated? The artist's choice to let the wood speak alongside the form gives it this incredibly earthy, grounded feeling. It's like... a bridge between the heavens and the humble material. Have you noticed the slightly parted lips? Almost a sigh escaping... Editor: Yes! There’s a real sense of intimacy, even vulnerability in this heavenly figure. The texture, too, is so unexpected for a sculpture from this period; I thought Baroque art always tended toward perfection! Curator: Oh, Baroque loved its drama and flair, no doubt, but look closer – see the rough edges? I reckon that's the artist whispering something about faith not needing to be flawless to be powerful. Maybe even asking if we should expect divine beings to look like flawless marble? It makes you wonder what inspired that artist, almost three and a half centuries ago. What was *their* world like? Editor: I guess it challenges the conventional image of angels we often see. Curator: Absolutely! This head makes me reconsider what it means to portray something "holy." It reminds me that beauty can be found even in the most unassuming forms and raw materials, that the story is always there to find beyond idealization. What do you think now? Editor: Well, now, I see an artist questioning expectations. An angel with a point of view and a very interesting hairdo, haha! Thanks for opening my eyes! Curator: And thank *you* for spotting that wonderful hairdo! Always new stories, just beneath the surface…