A Closer Look: Angels

A concise exploration of the depiction and history of angels in Christian art, published in 2010 by the National Gallery Company and distributed by Yale University Press. Part of the "A Closer Look" series, the book uses paintings from the National Gallery, London, to illustrate the diverse roles and complex evolution of angels in Western art. Langmuir, a former Head of Education at the National Gallery (1988–1995) and an art historian, highlights that angels are not always winged, may lack bodies (appearing as winged heads), and can vary in gender, age, or attire—ranging from antique dress to armor or nothing at all. She notes their multifaceted roles, from heavenly choirs glorifying the Virgin Mary to messengers or key figures in Christian narratives, and even acknowledges fallen angels like Satan.

The book traces the development of angelic imagery, reflecting theological sophistication that eventually categorized nine types of angels, and challenges simplistic interpretations by examining how these depictions evolved with cultural and doctrinal shifts. At 96 pages, with 90 color illustrations, it serves as an accessible guide for understanding the significance of angels in art, drawing on Langmuir’s expertise from her roles at the University of Sussex and the Open University. The text is both informative and engaging, appealing to art enthusiasts and those interested in religious iconography, though it focuses solely on the National Gallery’s collection, limiting its scope to that context.