ANGELS, SAN BERNARDINO.
Winged creatures are carved in the spandrels of the arch; and slightly below on either side is an angel within an arched niche, over which is a pediment, the mouldings and soffits showing delicately sculptured ornament; they are repeated below, and there are still other angels of the Heavenly Choir, playing musical instruments; these are on the broad pilasters that support the arch; some are in pairs, with very beautiful faces. The arrangement of their draperies is especially remarkable.
ANGEL PLAYING, SAN BERNARDINO.
In all these figures and faces, besides the beauty of expression, there is a marvellous mingling of quaintness and grace; they are so life-like that one almost listens for the sound of their instruments, in meet accompaniment to their chants, or to the hymns of the cherubs, who above and beside them are singing a chorus of praise. The Oratory is surmounted by a pediment, and in its tympanum we again find angels and cherubs. On the fringe of the pediment are the carved words—
AUGUSTA PERUSIA MCCCCLXI.
The illustrations help the reader's appreciation of this gem of Perugia; mere words can only sketch, without giving an adequate idea of its beauty.