San Michele scaccia Lucifero
Lorenzo Lotto·1545
Historical Context
Saint Michael Expelling Lucifer by Lotto from 1545 depicts the archangel’s victory over Satan, a subject of cosmic significance in Christian theology. Lotto’s late treatment of this dramatic subject demonstrates his continued engagement with powerful religious themes during his final productive years. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays nervous, charged atmosphere in portraits, symbolic objects placed with enigmatic purpose, eclectic absorption of influences from Germany, Raphael, and Giorgione, restless spatial invention.
Technical Analysis
The dynamic composition contrasts Michael’s triumphant figure with Lucifer’s falling form. Lotto’s bold handling and vivid coloring create a vision of supernatural combat appropriate to the cosmic subject.
