The Angel Standing in the Sun - William Turner

Joseph Mallord William Turner
1775-1851"The Angel Standing in the Sun" exhibited 1846

Bequeathed by the artist 1856.

This late painting shows the Archangel Michael appearing on the Day of Judgement with his flaming sword. In the foreground are Old Testament scenes of murder and betrayal: Adam and Eve weeps over the body of Abel (left), and Judith stands over the headless body of Holofernes (right).

Turner’s pessimistic picture seems to show death is everywhere in this fallen world. It may also reflect his concern that his own life and art would be judged. He got his revenge on his critics by showing the painting with lines describing ‘the feast of vultures when the day is done.’

(From the display caption September 2002)

Version on the Net (colouring may not be exact as well):


My rendition -- according to the book print... :


Jeesh.. this was difficult.. There also seems to be a weird "white" line flowing left of the angel. I didn't have that intention though! :)

Anyway, sigh... Art class on hold for now. Too busy!!