The Exterminating Angel Vanquishing the Army of Sennacherib

Antonio Tempesta

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a chaotic battle scene. The image depicts a dramatic battlefield filled with chaos and motion. Numerous soldiers and horses are in a state of frenzy amidst what appears to be a sudden attack or disaster. In the foreground, there are several figures either fallen or in various poses of distress, with a central focus on a large fallen warrior lying on the ground. Behind them are tents, while in the background, more soldiers and riders can be seen advancing. A figure with wings seems to be descending from the sky above the scene. The landscape features a fortified city in the distance. The illustration is intricately detailed with dynamic lines emphasizing movement and turmoil.