Angels

The agents of God and guardians of the dead. Shown in various positions and poses - pointing upwards (to heaven), arms outstretched (welcoming), folded (embracing), carrying (deceased to heaven), gathered (waiting in heaven), weeping (unexpectedly early death), somtimes inspecting the contents of an urn. Gabriel is recognisable by his horn/trumpet but sometimes with shield or spear and Michael, by his sword. Although they have no gender, they are nearly always depicted in feminine form. A five pointed star is often shown on an Angel's head.