One of Melozzos famous angels from the Basilica dei Santi Apostoli now in the sacristy of St. Peters.

The Archangel Michael wears a late Roman military cloak and cuirass in this 17th century depiction by Guido Reni

Angels are usually viewed as messengers of a supreme divine being sent to do the tasks of that being. Traditions vary as to whether angels have free will. While the appearance of angels also varies many views of angels give them a human shape. Despite a common popular belief or at least metaphor that angels are former human beings most major religious groups deny such a view and this position is held only by Latter Day Saints and the Bah Faith.