The artwork titled “St Cecilia” was created by the artist Guido Reni in the year 1606. Manifesting the oil on canvas medium, it is an exemplary piece from the Baroque art movement, measuring 96 x 76 cm. The genre of this piece is a religious painting, and it currently resides within the collection of the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California, United States.
“St Cecilia” by Guido Reni is a quintessential Baroque religious painting that captures the saint in a moment of devout contemplation and musical engagement. The artwork depicts Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, holding a viola da gamba, with a bow loosely held in her right hand. She is attired in a rich red dress draped by a flowing white garment with detailed creases, cinched at the waist with a golden-hued sash. Her gaze is turned upward, suggesting a divine inspiration or communication with the celestial realm, which is a characteristic element of Baroque religious art meant to evoke an emotional response in the viewer. Her head is adorned with a white turban with ornate gold embellishment, emphasizing her noble status and the sanctified nature of her portrayal. The stark black background contrasts luminously with the figure, enhancing the dramatic chiaroscuro effect that is the hallmark of Baroque painting. Overall, the artwork is replete with the dynamism and emotional intensity that are signatures of Reni’s contributions to the Baroque style.