Study for Saint Michael Vanquishing Lucifer 1849 - 1850

Editor: This is Eugène Delacroix's Study for Saint Michael Vanquishing Lucifer, a drawing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite ethereal, almost dreamlike in its swirling composition. What symbols stand out to you in this work? Curator: The Archangel Michael is a potent symbol of triumph over evil, often depicted with wings, armor, and a sword. Lucifer, embodying rebellion, is typically shown fallen, writhing in defeat. Note how Delacroix uses the swirling clouds, not merely as background, but as visual metaphors for the spiritual battle, drawing on centuries of artistic representations. Does that shift your perspective? Editor: It does! I hadn't thought of the clouds as active participants. Thanks for illuminating the symbolic richness! Curator: Indeed. Delacroix uses these familiar symbols to tap into a deep vein of cultural memory.