Angel Playing On Bells

This painting, "Angel Playing On Bells," by Edward Burne-Jones, presents a captivating and serene illustration of an angel engaged in playing music. The artwork is designed within a circular format, reminiscent of a stained glass window, which hints at a likely ecclesiastical or spiritual intent in its design.The angel, the central figure, dominates the image. It's dressed in flowing robes that drape elegantly, conveying both movement and a gentle calm. The angel's wings are richly detailed, adorned with peacock-like feathers, adding a touch of majestic elegance to its form.Focused intently on the task, the angel is depicted playing two bells with mallets, an act that is traditionally associated with call to prayer or the announcement of a significant moment in religious services. The grace and concentration on the angel’s face suggest a moment of deep devotion or meditation.The limited color palette of browns and shades of white enhances the simplicity and purity of the composition. This minimalistic color scheme might be indicative of the early stage in the artwork’s creation, possibly a design sketch for a stained glass piece.Overall, this painting blends spiritual symbolism with artistic beauty, clearly reflecting Burne-Jones' affinity for themes of mythology and religion, as well as his skill in the arts and crafts movement style.