Angel 18th - 19th century

Angelo Viva created this painted terracotta "Angel", sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. The figure is composed of curvilinear forms. The body, head and limbs are formed of terracotta, while the draped clothing is crafted from fabric, giving the work both sculptural and textural interest. The sculpture departs from a fixed, frontal pose, twisting in space. This creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow and draws the viewer's eye around the form. The use of polychrome decoration – note the contrast between the earthy tones of the skin and the pastel hues of the robes – further enlivens the sculpture, adding to its dramatic flair. Consider how Viva destabilizes the traditional representation of religious iconography. By combining terracotta and fabric, and by employing a spiraling composition, he rejects the static quality associated with earlier religious sculpture. This "Angel" doesn't simply represent a divine messenger; its innovative form also embodies a spirit of artistic exploration.