Saint Michael looks handsome and good, and yet utterly fierce.
The sword and cape show that St. Michael is the Commander of the Heavenly armies. Red, in icons, indicates great authority, usually of divine power (in ancient Greek secular icons of emperors, they wore red boots. For royalty, but also the belief that God gave them their power as rulers).
The colors of the flames which encompass Satan reflect upon the Archangel's wings, showing that both the angel and the flames are instruments of God's justice.
The medallion which St. Michael holds points to the King whom he serves. The letters IC XC are the first and last letter of the Greek words Jesus Christ. Some ancient icons actually have a picture of Jesus' face in the sphere, rather than the letters.
What's amazing is that every Chrismated/Confirmed Christian has been given a divine sword. We are soldiers in this Divine Army, and St. Michael is our beloved Commander!!!
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