St.Michael. The history

History:
In the New Testament Michael leads God's armies against Satan's forces in the Book of Revelation, where during the war in heaven he defeats Satan. In the Epistle of Jude Michael is specifically referred to as an "archangel". Christian sanctuaries to Michael appeared in the 4th century, when he was first seen as a healing angel, and then over time as a protector and the leader of the army of God against the forces of evil. By the 6th century devotions to Archangel Michael were widespread both in the Eastern and Western Churches. Over time, teachings on Michael began to vary among Christian denominations.
St. Michael, who ranks among the seven archangels, is also one of the three angels mentioned by name in the Scriptures, the others being St. Raphael and St. Gabriel. St. Michael is spoken of twice in the Old Testament, and twice in the New. The first reference occurs in the Book of Daniel (chapter x), where Michael comes to comfort Daniel after he has had a vision, and promises to be his helper in all things.
In the Apocalypse (chapter xii) we find the most dramatic reference to St. Michael. Here John recounts the great battle in Heaven, when the wicked angels under Lucifer revolt against God, and how Michael, leading the faithful angels, defeats the hosts of evil and drives them out. In this role he has been painted by many artists, and the poet Milton, in book vi of Paradise Lost, recounts the famous struggle. Because of this victory, St. Michael is revered in Catholic tradition and liturgy as the protector of the Church, as once he was regarded as the protector of the Israelites. In the Eastern Church, as well as among many theologians in the West, St Michael is placed over all the angels, as prince of the Seraphim. He is the special patron of sick people, mariners, and grocers; in Asia Minor many curative springs were dedicated to him. His cult has also been popular in Egypt, Rome, France, and Germany. His emblems are a banner, a sword, a dragon, and scales. The name Michael is a variation of Micah, meaning in Hebrew, "Who is like God?"

The Story

Sir Paul came across my Exhibition in Bath at Walcot Memorial Chapel, in August 2010. I was taught by Roy East RA (Nominee) in Oxford during my schooling days. The painting is 60 inches by 48 inches on canvas. I used Winsor & Newton Winton and Acron paint. Also ProArt Sable brushes and Seawhite canvas. I took inspiration from Raphael's masterpiece of the same name. I however after examining Raphael's piece, decided to change the position of the figure. I chose the light source scientifically as about late morning, managing the shadows accordingly. St.Michael's expression is effortless, serene and saintly. The serpent is imagined, and has a malevolent glow to him. The piece took six months to complete and has been photographed, varnished and framed. I was also thrilled to be invited to exhibit at St.Augustine's Church in Swindon.
Sir Paul has taken delivery and last week I travelled to Bath to take some photos. 
I am now half way through the next painting-St.George killing the Dragon.
Prints are now available on paper and Giclee canvas. Please go to my website for details.
http://www.augustusart.co.uk