St Michael defeats the Devil Ferdinand Victor Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863)

In this powerful Baroque painting, St. Michael Defeats the Devil, the Archangel Michael is depicted mid-battle, poised heroically as he triumphs over the forces of evil. He stands tall, bathed in divine light emanating from above, his muscular physique clad in armor, and his large, feathered wings spread wide behind him. In his right hand, he firmly grips a spear, aimed downwards, piercing the chest of a formidable, defeated devil.
The devil, a grotesque figure with demonic features, lies prostrate beneath Michaels foot. He is depicted with horns, a scaly body, and a serpent-like tail, struggling to resist his impending doom. A trident lies near his outstretched hand, a symbol of his power now rendered impotent. Around them, a chaotic and turbulent landscape unfolds. In the lower part of the oval composition, fallen figures, presumably souls or other defeated demons, are scattered across a rocky terrain. Some are writhing in agony or despair, while others appear resigned to their fate. A large, serpentine creature coils in the shadows, further adding to the sense of infernal struggle.
The painting utilizes dramatic chiaroscuro, with stark contrasts between light and shadow, to heighten the intensity of the scene and emphasize Michaels divine triumph. The background is a swirling vortex of dark, ominous clouds illuminated by a radiant golden light from above, suggesting the presence of heaven and divine intervention.
The subtext of this painting is a profound exploration of the eternal conflict between good and evil, light and darkness, and salvation versus damnation. Saint Michael, as the warrior angel and commander of Gods army, represents divine justice, protection, and the ultimate victory of good over all malevolent forces. His triumphant stance symbolizes hope and the assurance that evil, however powerful it may appear, will ultimately be vanquished. The depiction of fallen souls and demons underscores the consequences of succumbing to sin and evil. The painting serves as a powerful visual sermon, reminding viewers of the spiritual battle they face and the divine power available to overcome it.