Artistic value and composition
At the centre of the painting is the Archangel Saint Michael, conquering evil, represented here by the dark, beastly figure. The dynamics of the composition reflect the characteristic features of Baroque art: the figures are in motion, and the dynamic, heroic posture of Michael contrasts sharply with the powerless, annihilating figure of evil below. The painter has worked with fine detail: Michael's face radiates an ethereal calm, while his battle attire - the gilded helmet, armour and red cloak - symbolise heavenly power and victory.
A play of colours and light effects
Chiaroscuro, a favourite device of the Baroque, is strongly present in the painting - a dramatic contrast of light and shadow. Michael's figure is surrounded by a golden light from behind, as if a celestial ray is lifting him out of darkness, emphasising his heavenly mission and his triumph over evil. The earthly being whom Michael tramples underfoot appears in darker, more sombre colours, as if part of the realm of shadow, making the contrast even more stark.
The historical background and symbolism
The symbolism of the original Baroque altarpiece is also worth noting. St Michael is the commander of the heavenly hosts, embodying the eternal battle between good and evil, and this image commemorates the moment when divine truth and light triumph. Michael is both a warrior and a protective angel, who serves both as protector of the faith and patron of the Church. The image thus has not only aesthetic value, but also a deep spiritual content.
Everyone is welcome to visit the Kamrak exhibition and the St Michael altarpiece, a precious piece of Veszprém's past, and we also offer our Work in Progress walks, where you can learn about the details of the ongoing renovation of the castle quarter.
WIP 2024 guided walks (Saturday-Sunday: 11:30am; 2pm and 4pm) - Registration: [https://wip2023.hu/turavezetes]
Opening hours:
- Tuesday-Friday: 5pm-7pm
- Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm
The gift shop is open on Saturdays and Sundays.
We welcome you all!