What Does an Angel Wear: Biblical Descriptions, Paintings, And Decorations

What Do Angels Wear in Paintings or Religious Art?

In the early church, angels were portrayed as youthful men without wings. Traditionally, they wore a tunic and a himation, secured with a rope at their waists, to emulate the apostles. The image below depicts three wingless angels adorned in white robes that gracefully reach their ankles. It was believed that white aligned with the essence of angels, symbolizing purity and holiness.

In the latter part of the 3rd century AD, inspired by the depiction of the goddess of victory in ancient Greece and Rome, the representation of angels with wings began to emerge. These wings highlight the transcendence and sanctity of angels, expressing that they are not bound by the material world and can freely communicate between divinity and humanity.

By the Byzantine period, angels were illustrated in white or gold robes. The robes could feature intricate gold patterns, adorned with gems or delicate gold embroidery, emanating a divine radiance. Alongside robes, angels are put on exquisite court attire. The angel depicted in the image below is adorned in a regal attire known as Loros, crafted from gold brocade, embellished with pearls, gems, and enamel, elegantly draped across the chest, and cascading down to the ankles. Loros is a highly esteemed ceremonial garment typically reserved for the emperor and select senior members of the royal family, highlighting the angel’s role as a courtier of heaven.

In the Renaissance, shaped by humanism, the portrayal of angels evolved to be more realistic, imbuing them with a blend of human elegance and divine transcendence. As depicted in the painting below of Madonna of the Magnificat by Sandro Botticelli. The angels encircling the Virgin Mary wear long, delicate skirts in shades of light pink and light yellow. The drapes of their garments resemble the gentle ripples of flowing water. Their clothing echoes the summer dresses worn by Florentine women, embodying the humanistic idea that divine beauty is the beauty of the world.

During the Baroque period, depictions of angels conveyed a powerful sense of drama, movement, and opulence. Typically, angels are portrayed in long robes characterized by exaggerated and dynamic folds, as though caught in a gust of wind. A prime example can be seen in Peter Paul Rubens’s Assumption of the Virgin, where the angel’s robe billows and soars, brimming with vitality, while the interplay of gold and red intensifies the dramatic essence of the ascension scene.

From the above, it is evident that angels typically wore long robes, primarily white in the early days; however, over time, the hues of angelic robes evolved to become increasingly colorful. The styles of angel costumes are increasingly diverse, reflecting the characteristics of the times.

Besides robes, there exist other forms of attire, like armor. The most classic example is the Archangel Michael, wearing armor and wielding a sword, triumphing over Satan.

In addition to armor, there is also sheer fabric. It is frequently observed on putto to highlight its purity and innocence. Like the Putti: a ceiling decoration by Peter Paul Rubens in the picture below, the Putti in it is only wrapped with a piece of sheer fabric.