St. Cecilia
C.1635
In this vibrant Baroque scene, Saint Cecilia sits gracefully at a keyboard, surrounded by a chaotic yet harmonious choir of cherubs. A chubby baby angel flies overhead, dramatically pulling back a heavy red curtain as if revealing a divine stage performance, while others below struggle to hold up giant sheets of musical notation for her. Poussin, a master of classical order, balances this heavenly concert with rich, warm colors—the golden yellow of Cecilia’s robe contrasting beautifully with her deep blue skirt. Legend says Cecilia sang to God in her heart during her wedding, and here, Poussin captures that moment of spiritual music making, turning a religious figure into the ultimate conductor of a celestial orchestra.
- Technique
- Oil on canvas
Location: Museo del Prado, Madrid