The Angel at the Tomb

1869

Medium

Albumen silver print

Dimensions

34.4 × 25.2 cm

Status

In Museum Collection

Collect24 Art ID

C24-299136

> This serene study illustrates a key scene in the story of Christ’s resurrection: “For the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow” (Matthew 28:2-3). Julia Margaret Cameron chose to employ a female in the traditionally male role of guardian of the Holy Sepulchre. She used her most familiar and trustworthy model, Mary Hillier (1847-1936) (see [84.XZ.186.31](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/58609/julia-margaret-cameron-faith-british-1864/), [84.XZ.186.76](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/58654/julia-margaret-cameron-mary-madonna-british-1864/), [84.XZ.186.40](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/58618/julia-margaret-cameron-the-five-wise-virgins-british-1864/), [84.XZ.186.41](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/58619/julia-margaret-cameron-the-five-foolish-virgins-british-1864/), [84.XM.443.65](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/58885/julia-margaret-cameron-the-communion-british-1870/)), whose handsome profile and abundant tresses seem in keeping with the drama of Saint Matthew’s gospel. A remarkable…