FRANCHI, Antonio
(b. 1638, Villa Basilica, d. 1709, Firenze)

Personification of Music (St Cecilia)

c. 1650
Oil on canvas, 87 x 67 cm (oval)
Private collection

St Cecilia is a Christian saint and virgin martyr believed to have lived in the 2nd or 3rd century. She is the patron saint of music, her attribute being the organ (often the portative type).

This painting is a youthful work by the artist, inspired by Ficherelli's sensuous females.

Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 3 minutes):
Girolamo Frescobaldi: Ricercar No. 8