Mrs. Billington as Saint Cecilia 18th-19th century

Curator: Here we have James Ward's "Mrs. Billington as Saint Cecilia," part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It feels like stepping into a dream; those angels, the billowing clouds. It has such a heavenly feel! Curator: Ward captures the famous soprano, Mrs. Billington, as Saint Cecilia, patron saint of music. Notice how the composition places her between the earthly and the divine. Editor: It's interesting how the darkness of the lower clouds contrasts with the light surrounding her and the angels. A very striking semiotic gesture. Curator: Indeed! The contrast intensifies her ethereal appearance, creating a sense of awe. Her gaze also suggests a deep connection with the music. Editor: It really makes you ponder the power of music—its ability to elevate us, to transport us to other realms. Curator: Absolutely. Ward manages to weave together portraiture and religious allegory quite seamlessly. Editor: I'll carry away the feeling that music transcends boundaries. Curator: And I'll remember how Ward so skillfully used composition to achieve such an impression!