Ethiopian - Archangel Michael and the Crossing of the Red Sea - Walters 36131

Together with its companion on the opposite pillar, this work originally flanked the entrance to the "mäqdäs," or sanctuary, of an Ethiopian church, where it served as a guardian figure. Here, the archangel Michael acts a protector of the Jewish people. The Old Testament scene beneath him is divided into three parts. On the left, the Red Sea consumes Pharaoh and his army, while, on the right, Moses closes the waters with his staff. Below, Aaron's sister Miriam and another woman sing songs of praise. This object is one of only a handful of such monumental wall paintings that can be seen outside of Ethiopia.