Arquebusier Angels

The arquebusier angel is a singular artistic representation that emerged in South America during the Spanish colonial period. Unlike traditional angels with swords, arquebusier angels carry arquebusiers, a type of ancient firearm. This motif became an emblematic element of the Cuzco school of painting in Peru, being one of the most distinctive subjects and rich in detail and expression. This edition includes the most emblematic works of this tradition.
The arquebusier angels spread especially during the seventeenth century in the area of Cuzco, in the Viceroyalty of Peru. These angels are dressed in robes that evoke the soldiers of the time, and their acceptance among the indigenous people could be linked to the relationship with their ancient deities and heroes. In addition, the authors of these works drew on contemporary Christian writings on the angelic hierarchy, representing both archangels recognized by the Church and others derived from tradition.
One of the most complete sets of arquebusier angels is found in the church of Calamarca in Bolivia, composed of thirty-six paintings painted in the seventeenth century. Ten magnificent arquebusier angels are part of this ensemble.
With the boom in demand in the eighteenth century, large artistic workshops, mostly indigenous, were established to meet orders for these images. Devotion to arquebusier angels has been associated with the pre-Columbian cult of the stars, and their link with winged warriors of the pre-Hispanic pantheon and guards of archers and halberdiers of the Spanish monarchy has also been highlighted.
Paintings of arquebusier angels are found mainly in Peru, Bolivia, northern Argentina and in various Spanish museums. The representation of these angels is remarkably detailed, with a lavishness in the details of the costumes and a balance in the composition. A prominent example is the archangel “Letiel Dei” of Calamarca, where forms are clearly defined and synthesized, and colors, brocades, lace and glitter contribute to an effect of luxury.
The arquebusier angels are a unique and distinctive contribution to the colonial art of South America, particularly of the Cuzco school of painting in Peru. Their detailed and expressive representation, together with their link to local culture and religion, make these works a fascinating testimony to the synthesis of indigenous and European traditions in colonial times.