Angel (one of a pair)

Hendrik-Frans Verbruggen

ca. 1690–1710 · Oak · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

One of a pair, with 1976.48.2, originally part of a shrine, altar or 'chaire', of moderate dimensions. Their attitude of turning toward a center of attention and the holes in the bottom each suggest that they were affixed at the sides and toward the top of an architectural composition, probably on the volutes. The soles of their feet are more anatomically researched and carefully executed than the tops, suggesting that they were meant to be seen from below. Their execution in the round suggests that they were meant to be seen from almost any vantage point. The twisting composition, elongated bodies and faceted carving are typical of Verbrugghen's style.

Artist

Hendrik-Frans Verbruggen

Date

ca. 1690–1710

Medium

Oak

Culture

Flemish

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Purchase, Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, by exchange, 1976