Angel with Candlestick

Michelangelo carved this marble angel around 1494-1495 at age 20, one of his earliest works. The kneeling figure holds a large candlestick, serving as part of the elaborate tomb of Saint Dominic in the Basilica of San Domenico in Bologna. Michelangelo was commissioned to complete the shrine after sculptor Niccolò dell'Arca died, leaving the project unfinished.

The angel demonstrates Michelangelo's already notable understanding of anatomy and his ability to infuse marble with life. The figure's youthful face, curly hair, and confident posture show classical Renaissance ideals. Large wings hang from the back with detailed feathering. The sculpture stands 51.5 centimeters high including the base.

Records show Michelangelo received twelve ducats for the angel and eighteen for his accompanying St. Petronius figure. He studied sculptures by Jacopo della Quercia on the Basilica of San Petronio nearby. The angel remains at the Basilica of San Domenico in Bologna, paired with dell'Arca's earlier angel.