First Hierarchy
The highest of the three traditional angelic hierarchies, consisting of Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones.
Angelology
The theology, hierarchy, iconography, attributes, and sculptural representation of angels in Christian sacred art.
Fallen Angel
An angel understood to have rebelled against God; Christian art represents fallen angels as defeated, expelled, demonic, or transformed beings.
Tobias and the Angel
The Book of Tobit subject in which the young Tobias journeys under the protection of the Archangel Raphael, often accompanied by a fish and dog.
Second Hierarchy
The middle of the three traditional angelic hierarchies, consisting of Dominions, Virtues, and Powers.
Angel of the Annunciation
Gabriel represented at the Annunciation, traditionally shown approaching or kneeling before the Virgin with a lily, sceptre, or scroll.
Jacob Wrestling with the Angel
The Genesis subject of Jacob wrestling through the night with a mysterious divine or angelic figure, frequently treated as an intense two-body struggle.
Third Hierarchy
The lowest of the three traditional angelic hierarchies, consisting of Principalities, Archangels, and Angels and most directly associated with divine missions toward the created world.
Angel of the Agony
The angel who appears to strengthen Christ during the Agony in the Garden, often shown bearing or presenting the chalice associated with the coming Passion.
Expulsion from Eden
The Genesis subject in which Adam and Eve are driven from Eden and the way to the tree of life is guarded by cherubim and a flaming sword.
Thrones
One of the nine angelic orders and the lowest order of the first hierarchy; medieval theology associates Thrones with divine judgment and receptivity to God's rule.