The Fall of the Rebel Angels

"The Fall of the Rebel Angels" is a breathtaking oil-on-panel painting created by Pieter Bruegel the Elder in 1562. This masterpiece resides in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels. The painting vividly depicts the dramatic moment of fallen angels, drawing inspiration from a passage in the Book of Revelation. The grotesque and fantastical figures in the artwork reflect the style of Hieronymus Bosch.

Alongside "Dulle Griet" and "The Triumph of Death" this painting was likely part of a series intended for a collector. Bruegel's composition, which features prominent central figures surrounded by smaller ones, was a common approach of the era. The recurring theme of good versus evil, and vice versus virtue, is evident in Bruegel's works, with this particular piece emphasizing the sin of pride that led to Lucifer's downfall.

"The Fall of the Rebel Angels" has also made its mark in popular culture. It was featured in the music video "Blood, Sweat & Tears" by the K-Pop group BTS. Additionally, the painting was used in a collaboration between Supreme and Japanese clothing brand Undercover during their Fall/Winter 2016 season, appearing on an all-over-print jacket and a sticker.

This painting not only showcases Bruegel's extraordinary talent, but also continues to inspire and influence various forms of modern art and culture.