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This detail reveals that the seemingly atmospheric clouds in the background are actually composed of countless ghostly angel heads. The faces are painted with thin glazes to blend into the luminous sky, illustrating the transition between the physical and spiritual realms. A portion of a green curtain and a golden halo are visible at the edges of the frame.
These 'cloud angels' illustrate the Neoplatonic and Christian concept of the celestial hierarchy, as described by Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite. The visual blurring of clouds and angels suggests a cosmos where matter and spirit are interconnected, reflecting the Renaissance fascination with the emanation of divine light from the Godhead.
Connected Texts
Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite
His treatise 'The Celestial Hierarchy' defined the ranks of angels and their relationship to divine light, which Raphael visualizes here as a multitude of intellects merging with the atmosphere.