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Henry II as the Victorious Saint Michael

Jean Duvet

National Gallery of Art

Three figures are depicted in the drawing. The central figure is being crowned with a halo-like crown, dressed in classical armor and robes. The figure to the left is holding a shield with fleur-de-lis designs and a raised sword, while the figure to the right is grasping the crown. A defeated creature lies on the ground with exaggerated, monstrous features such as claws and a horned head. The background is filled with clouds, and there is a sense of movement through the flowing lines of the garments and aura surrounding the crowned figure. The scene suggests a thematic portrayal of divine justice or a celestial coronation.

Artwork Details

Date
probably 1548
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
3477 × 4749 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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