This Angel with the Superscription I.N.R.I., was sculpted by Bernini in 1668-69, though this one on the Ponte S. Angelo is
actually a copy, the original being in the church of St. Andrea della Fratte in Rome.
The heirs of Bernini gave both this Angel with the Superscription, and the Angel with the Crown of Thorns to the church
for safe keeping about 50 years after Bernini's death.

Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire at the time of Jesus,
and the initials I.N.R.I, are an acronym in Latin for "Jesus of Nazereth, King of the Jews",
the title Pontius Pilate had placed above Jesus's head on the cross, (John 19:19).
The Early Christian Church adopted the first letters of each word in the inscription “INRI”
which has appeared in many representations of the crucifixion.

Both of the angels by Bernini's hand, are more finely finished and highly polished than the other Ponte S. Angelo Angels (by assistants).
It is thought that because of this, possibly copies were always intended to be used outdoors on the Ponte S. Angelo.

The angels by Bernini's hand (including these two copies) , as well as those by assistants made to his designs,
show traditional Baroque sculptural design,
with active swirling drapery, twisting figure with weight on one leg, and a very emotional quality in the gestures and facial expressions.