Saint Cecilia at the Organ, Flanked by Angels Making Music 1780 - 1850

Editor: This drawing by Johann Gottfried Schadow, dating from between 1780 and 1850, depicts Saint Cecilia at the Organ, surrounded by music-making angels. There’s almost a sense of a bas-relief sculpture come to life, but rendered in sepia tones. What strikes you most when you look at it? Curator: Ah, Cecilia. Patron saint of musicians. You're right, there's a quiet monumentality to it, isn't there? Almost like a dream of a Roman relief panel, caught mid-song. The texture of the drawing reminds me of dry chalk on paper; notice the light it catches. Perhaps that’s why it evokes something from antiquity. Editor: Yes! It's like a faded memory. Curator: Absolutely, and look at Cecilia herself. She’s a solid, queenly figure, not swooning or ecstatic like in some Baroque portrayals, which contrasts nicely with the fluffy lightness of the angels! Tell me, what kind of music do you think they're making? Is it heavenly harmonies, or something more earthly? Editor: Hmm… the organ and cello feel rather grounded, almost neoclassical in their formality, yet the angels introduce a touch of whimsy. It's a fascinating contrast! Curator: Indeed! Schadow was a neoclassical sculptor first and foremost. This work may have served as an exploration for future sculpture. Don’t you wonder what those little angels are up to? Holding their music sheet just right. Editor: Now that you point that out, the seriousness in the angels faces juxtaposes that whimsy that I picked up on earlier. They are intently performing! That seriousness of the angels against the backdrop of a sacred performance evokes some humorous feelings inside of me. Curator: I love that interpretation. To me, Schadow, while respecting tradition, allows that slight hint of earthly delight to creep in, creating a beautiful tension. Editor: It’s amazing how one simple drawing can hold such complex emotions and perspectives. Thanks for shedding some light!