Angels have long captivated human imagination, symbolizing hope, protection, and divine beauty.
Across cultures and centuries, artists have immortalized these celestial beings in stone and metal, creating stunning sculptures that evoke a sense of wonder.
From grand monuments to delicate carvings, angel statues serve not only as artistic expressions but also as reflections of the beliefs and emotions of their time.
In this article, we’ll explore ten famous angel statues that stand out for their artistic significance and cultural impact.
Each statue tells a unique story, showcasing the diverse interpretations of angels by renowned sculptors. Whether it’s the towering Angel of the North in England or Michelangelo’s exquisite creations, these works invite viewers to contemplate the ethereal and the divine.
1. The Statue of an Angel – Michelangelo
Michelangelo’s The Statue of an Angel stands as a testament to his artistry and skill. Carved from precious marble, this statue measures 6 feet tall, including its pedestal. Finished in 1495, it captures a winged angel kneeling with a large candlestick.
This masterpiece is housed in the Basilica of San Domenico in Italy. Notably, Michelangelo discovered a significant letter “M” at the statue’s base, confirming his authorship.
2. Angel of the North – Anthony Gormley
The Angel of the North, created by Anthony Gormley, stands impressively at 66 feet tall and boasts a wingspan of 177 feet. Built entirely of brown-red steel, it weighs 20 tons and reflects both power and simplicity.
Located in Gateshead, England, it dominates the landscape, visible for miles on clear days. Completed in 1998, this iconic sculpture symbolizes regional identity and artistry.
It draws millions of visitors annually, marking it as a vital landmark in the English countryside and a testament to contemporary sculpture.
3. Angel with the Crown of Thorns – Bernini
Bernini’s Angel with the Crown of Thorns, completed in 1667, captures a poignant moment in religious artistry. The sculpture depicts an angel delicately holding a crown of thorns, symbolizing Christ’s suffering.
Crafted from marble, the flowing garments enhance the sense of movement, creating a lifelike presence. This masterpiece showcases Bernini’s ability to invoke emotion, as the angel’s expression reflects compassion and reverence.
Positioned in a heavenly atmosphere, the statue effectively embodies the Baroque era’s blend of spiritual significance and technical excellence, making it a revered work in Italy’s rich artistic heritage.
4. Knife Angel – Alfie Bradley
Knife Angel is a remarkable 27-foot sculpture created by British artist Alfie Bradley. It’s crafted from over 100,000 individual knife blades collected by police.
Completed in 2018, this striking piece aims to raise awareness about the growing issue of knife crime in the UK.
The artist spent two years designing and constructing the angel, dedicating it to the victims of knife violence. Currently, Knife Angel stands proudly in downtown Telford, serving as a powerful reminder of the violence affecting communities.
5. Angel with the Superscription – Bernini
Bernini’s Angel with the Superscription stands gracefully in the Sant’Andrea delle Fratte Church, showcasing Baroque artistry.
This marble statue portrays a winged angel holding the superscription from Christ’s crucifix, inscribed with “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.”
Completed in the 17th century, this work reflects Bernini’s mastery with flowing drapery and an emotive expression.
It serves as part of a series of ten angel statues that represent moments from the crucifixion, highlighting the deep spiritual meaning behind each figure.
6. The Recording Angel – Lorado Taft
The Recording Angel, crafted by Lorado Taft in 1923, stands as a significant piece of American sculpture. This large statue features a winged angel seated with a large book spread open on its lap, conveying a divine message.
Described as female, the angel symbolizes the recording of human actions, prayers, and events, emphasizing the connection between spirituality and individual experience.
Located in Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun, Wisconsin, this work illustrates Taft’s mastery and thoughtful exploration of themes related to faith and remembrance.
7. Habakkuk and the Angel – Bernini
Habakkuk and the Angel, crafted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, showcases a dynamic interaction between the prophet Habakkuk and the angel, conveying a sense of urgency and divine revelation.
Completed in 1656, this marble statue captures the moment when Habakkuk is instructed by the angel to deliver food to the prophet Daniel in the lion’s den.
The intricate details of the drapery and facial expressions highlight Bernini’s mastery of movement and realism.
This work exemplifies Baroque artistry, blending spiritual narrative with emotional depth, inviting viewers to contemplate the profound connection between heaven and earth.
8. Angelic Salutation – Veit Stoss
Angelic Salutation, crafted by Veit Stoss in 1518, is a remarkable wooden statue depicting the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. Stoss designed this masterful piece to hang in the Church of St. Lorenz in Nuremberg, Germany.
The statue showcases meticulous detail, from the angel’s flowing garments to the expressive features conveying awe and reverence.
Suspended with metal chains, it captures a pivotal biblical moment, highlighting Stoss’s skills and his contribution to late Gothic art. This stunning work remains a significant representation of divine interaction.
9. Angel of Grief – William Wetmore Story
Angel of Grief, created by William Wetmore Story in 1894, is a poignant sculpture located in the Protestant Cemetery in Rome. This remarkable statue commemorates Story’s wife, Emelyn, capturing a winged angel draped over a tomb in deep mourning.
The lifelike details and classical Roman attire reflect the artist’s mastery, evoking intense emotions surrounding loss.
This statue has become a powerful symbol of grief, inspiring replicas in cemeteries worldwide, further emphasizing its universal resonance with those experiencing heartache.
10. Angel of Independence – Antonio Rivas Mercado
Angel of Independence stands tall in Mexico City, soaring at 22 meters (72 feet) atop a large pedestal.
Crafted by Antonio Rivas Mercado in 1910, this iconic monument commemorates the centennial of Mexico’s War of Independence.
The angel, depicted with outstretched wings and holding a laurel crown, symbolizes victory and freedom.
Located along the bustling Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, the statue attracts both locals and tourists, serving as a significant cultural and historic landmark in the heart of the city.
