#39459 Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898)

The artwork presents a figure identified as an angel, depicted in profile and engaged in playing a flute. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the elongated form of the subject. A golden frame surrounds the central scene, creating a sense of enclosure and reverence.
Here we see the angel’s face turned downwards, focused intently on the instrument. This posture suggests humility and dedication to the act of music-making rather than outward display or divine pronouncements. The hair is rendered in shades of red and auburn, contrasting with the predominantly pale palette used for the figures garments and wings. These wings, loosely sketched with broad strokes, appear ethereal and almost translucent, contributing to a sense of otherworldliness.
The artist employed a muted color scheme dominated by whites, creams, blues, and touches of gold. This restrained palette lends an air of quiet contemplation and serenity to the scene. The background is rendered in deep blue tones, providing a stark contrast that highlights the angel’s form and draws attention to the flute itself.
The depiction of the clothing appears simple and flowing, suggesting purity and grace. A narrow belt cinches the waist, adding a subtle detail to the otherwise unadorned attire. The artists technique is characterized by loose brushwork and a lack of sharp definition, which contributes to the overall impression of dreamlike quality.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of divine inspiration and the power of music as a conduit for spiritual expression. The angel’s absorbed posture suggests that the act of playing transcends mere performance; it becomes an intimate communion with something greater than oneself. The golden frame reinforces this notion, elevating the scene to a realm of sacred significance. Ultimately, the work evokes a sense of quiet beauty and invites reflection on the nature of faith and artistic creation.