After Raphael: “He Maketh His Angels Spirits” — Antique Engraving
Engraved by P. Lutz | 19th Century
This finely executed antique engraving after Raphael reproduces the celebrated angelic motif inspired by Raphael’s High Renaissance compositions, depicting two contemplative angels resting on a ledge, gazing heavenward.
The engraving bears the inscription:
“RAFFAELLE PINXT”
“P. LUTZ SCULPT”
indicating the original composition by Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio) and the engraving executed by P. Lutz, a skilled 19th-century engraver working in the academic tradition.
Below the image is the biblical inscription:
“HE MAKETH HIS ANGELS SPIRITS, AND HIS MINISTERS A FLAME OF FIRE”
Hebrews I. 7
This quotation reinforces the spiritual and devotional nature of the work, aligning it with the long tradition of religious prints produced for both private contemplation and scholarly appreciation.
The engraving is newly mounted and framed in a refined ebony-style frame, which provides a strong architectural contrast to the delicacy of the engraved lines and enhances the visual depth of the composition.
Engravings after Raphael were widely produced during the 18th and 19th centuries as part of the academic and devotional revival of Renaissance ideals. Such prints allowed collectors, institutions, and students access to the masterworks of the High Renaissance and were often executed by accomplished engravers whose role was to translate painterly composition into line with clarity and reverence.
The inclusion of scriptural text reflects the period’s interest in aligning visual beauty with theological meaning, making works such as this both decorative and didactic.
Dealer’s Comment
A beautifully balanced engraving after Raphael, combining devotional subject matter with excellent engraving quality. The newly fitted ebony-style frame gives the piece a strong contemporary presence while remaining entirely sympathetic to the period character of the print. Ideal for both traditional and modern interiors.
Condition Report
The engraving is in very good antique condition. There is light, even toning consistent with age, and no visible tears or losses.
The work has been recently mounted and framed behind glazing. The ebony-style frame and ready for immediate display.
Measurement
Height: 40 cm / 15.7 inch
Width: 47 cm / 18.5 inch
Depth: 3.5 cm / 1.4 inch
Weight: 1.7 k.g. / 3.7 lbs
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