Archangel Michael Weighing Souls
2007 © Maxim Tabachnik
Archangel Michael Weighing SoulsArchangel Michael Weighing SoulsArchangel Michael
Gothic Arcades, Hôtel-DieuThe Damned in TormentChrist the JudgeGrotesque and Lion CorbelsStudents in the Hôtel-Dieu CourtyardCourtyard of the Hôtel-DieuThe Blessed Led to HeavenPortrait of Nicolas RolinLuis in the Courtyard of the Hôtel-DieuDragon Corbel, Great HallGuigone de SalinsThe Weighing of SoulsWedding CeremonyAngel with Donor ArmsSaint Eligius Healing the HorseThe Damned Cast into HellThe Virgin with Apostles Peter and JohnLuis in the Great Hall of the Hôtel-DieuChrist at RestPatron Inscription of the Sculle FamilySpire and Roofs

Archangel Michael Weighing SoulsRogier van der Weyden

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In this panel from the Last Judgment Altarpiece (1445–50), Archangel Michael dominates the scene, balancing souls in golden scales as Christ presides above. Trumpeting angels herald resurrection while the blessed and damned await their fate. Painted for Beaune’s Hôtel-Dieu, the work reminded patients that earthly suffering was framed within the ultimate hope of divine justice and salvation.