San Miguel Arcángel (Saint Michael the Archangel)
Maker and role
School of: Santo Niño Santero, New Mexican, active ca. 1830-1860
Year
before 1860
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Object detail
Production place
Media/Materials
Wood with water soluble paint and tin
Measurements
height, 19 3/4 x 11 1/4 x 6 1/4in (50.2 x 28.6 x 15.9cm)
Credit line
Bequest of Marion Koogler McNay
Accession number
1950.275
Object type
Department
Location
Further information
According to the book of Revelation in the Bible, 12:7-9, San Miguel fought against Satan's rebellious angels during a great battle in heaven. In full armor, San Miguel holds the sword used to defeat the dragon (Satan) under his feet. With his scale, he will weigh souls on Judgment Day.
San Miguel's tin crown, scales, and sword may have come from used tin cans. After the U.S. occupation of northern New Mexico in 1846, military supplies, including food, were brought to the troops in tin containers that were later recycled by New Mexican tinsmiths to create decorative objects.
San Miguel's tin crown, scales, and sword may have come from used tin cans. After the U.S. occupation of northern New Mexico in 1846, military supplies, including food, were brought to the troops in tin containers that were later recycled by New Mexican tinsmiths to create decorative objects.
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