Panel Study for the Angel Gabriel, The Angel of Victory Triptych
Datec. 1941
Artist
Violet Oakley
(American painter and illustrator, 1874–1961)
MediumTempera and oil on Masonite ™ panel
Dimensions48 × 32 in. (121.9 × 81.3 cm)
frame: 51 3/4 × 35 3/4 in. (131.4 × 90.8 cm)
frame: 51 3/4 × 35 3/4 in. (131.4 × 90.8 cm)
Credit LineGift of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Philadelphia, 2012
Object number2012-30
On View
On viewClassificationsPAINTING
Label TextIn preparing this composition, Oakley searched for biblical and historical models that would merge the mission of the airmen of Floyd Bennett Field with that of their heavenly counterparts. The winged warrior Michael, for example, serves as a timeless emblem for fighter pilots. Smaller details emphasize the connection between aviators and altarpiece figures. For instance, the gold designs on Gabriel’s heavenly vestments echo the shape of the airmen’s parachute harnesses, and the dove of the Holy Spirit above Gabriel’s head parallels the imagery of the Naval Aviator Badge at the angel’s feet.
Sketch for/sketch for
