Angel - the symbol of St Matthew - Folio 129v

Drawn from the evangelist symbols of the Book of Kells, the angel represents St. Matthew and the human nature of Christ revealed through the Incarnation. Rooted in the prophetic visions of Ezekiel and the Book of Revelation, the four evangelist beings became enduring symbols within early Christian illumination.

Surrounded by radiant color and sacred ornament, the angel serves as messenger, witness, and herald of the Gospel narrative.

Hand-painted in enamel on traditional Palestinian hand-blown glass from Bethlehem, this ornament unites Celtic illumination with ancient Middle Eastern glassmaking traditions.