Magic art gallery: Angels

Angels take many forms in fantasy and mythology. Magic: the Gathering is no different. Angels have been concepted in many ways over the history of the game. ‘Flying warrior of justice’ is the usual form, but as you’ll see in this short collection, there are other forms used.

Serra Angel

A classic piece of art by Greg Staples. Serra Angel was the original angel in the first Magic: the Gathering set, though with art by Douglas Shuler. This art appeared on a reprint in 2009 and has been used since.

This is the classic warrior angel of fantasy.

 

Empyreal Archangel

Another angel by Greg Staples, and another armoured warrior of justice. The colours used a different, much warmer than in the first piece, but the pose is classic.

 

Linvala, Keeper of Silence

This angel by Igor Kierluk has a more calming presence than Greg Staples’ warriors. This is consistent with the effect of the cards, which shuts down the abilities of other creatures. The scales represent justice, and for some reason she has four wings rather than two. I think all the angels of Zendikar have this additional pair of wings. No, you never see them from behind.

 

Linvala, the Preserver

The same character as above, but in the return to Zendikar, Linvala has a little more of the warrior about her. This art from Magali Villeneuve shows an angel rising into a sunlit sky.

 

Restoration Angel

Angels and blessings go together and this art from Johannes Voss shows the blessing in action. This angel has no martial presence, this is left to the warrior kneeling before her.

 

Angel of Flight Alabaster

The angel is mourning is something rarely seen in Magic, but beautifully illustrated in this card by Howard Lyon. Like the angel above this one has no signs of the warrior about her. However light skies have become dull, and the scene is far more sombre.

 

Angles come in many types in the game, what’s your favourite?