FONTANA, Annibale
(b. 1540, Milano, d. 1587, Milano)

Model for an Angel

1583-84
Wax on a metal armature, mounted on wood, height 54 cm
Museum of Art, Cleveland

Annibale Fontana created this wax model, perhaps in part for the patron's approval, while preparing a sculpture for the Church of Santa Maria presso San Celso in Milan. The angel was mounted high on the facade, so the composition needed to be impeccably balanced as well as legible from the ground. Wings and a trumpet appear in the final work, but Fontana here concentrates on the deep folds, clinging drapery, and forceful pose.




© Web Gallery of Art, created by Emil Krén and Daniel Marx.