Bartolome Bermejo – Saint Michael Triumphs over the Devil Part 1 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a dramatic confrontation between celestial power and demonic resistance. A figure, clad in elaborate golden armor and draped with voluminous crimson fabric, dominates the central space. He stands triumphantly over a monstrous being rendered in earthy tones of brown and red, its form contorted in apparent agony beneath his foot. The armored figure holds aloft a long, gleaming sword, poised to deliver a decisive blow. Large, feathered wings extend from his back, emphasizing his otherworldly nature and suggesting divine intervention.
To the left of this central struggle, a cleric stands in prayerful contemplation. He is dressed in dark robes with a distinctive black biretta, and holds what appears to be a small book or manuscript. His posture suggests reverence and supplication, positioning him as a witness to the unfolding event and perhaps an intercessor for those seeking divine protection. A scattered sheet of parchment lies at his feet, its contents illegible but hinting at scholarly pursuits or religious devotion.
The background is divided into two distinct zones. Above, a gold-leafed expanse creates a sense of ethereal space, suggesting the heavens from which the armored figure descends. Below, a dark, wooded landscape provides a contrasting earthly setting for the conflict. The limited depth of field and the stark contrast between light and shadow contribute to the paintings dramatic intensity.
The artist’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of textures – the sheen of metal, the softness of fabric, the roughness of scales. This level of realism serves to heighten the emotional impact of the scene. The composition seems designed to convey a message of spiritual victory and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The presence of the cleric suggests that this divine intervention is not merely a cosmic event but one with profound implications for human faith and salvation. The overall effect is one of awe-inspiring power and solemn piety, characteristic of devotional art intended to inspire reverence and reinforce religious beliefs.