Description
The painting St Cecilia with Two Angels by Giovanni Martinelli is a masterpiece of Italian Baroque art from the 17th century. The work represents Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, surrounded by two angels playing musical instruments. The composition of the painting is impressive, with a sense of movement and fluidity achieved through the arrangement of the figures and the use of curved and diagonal lines.
Martinelli's artistic style is heavily influenced by the Italian Baroque, and his painting technique is exquisite. The work is a sample of his ability to create an atmosphere of mysticism and spirituality through the use of intense and contrasting colors. The intense red of the angels' robes contrasts with the deep blue of Saint Cecilia's cloak, creating a sense of harmony and balance.
The story behind the painting is also very interesting. It is believed to have been commissioned by the Borghese family, one of the most influential of the time, for their private chapel in the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. The painting was later acquired by the British art collector, Sir Robert Walpole, and is now part of the collection of the National Gallery in London.
One of the lesser known aspects of the painting is the symbology behind the musical instruments shown in the work. The violin held by one of the angels symbolizes heavenly harmony, while the viola da gamba held by the other angel represents earthly music. The lyre that lies on the ground, next to the feet of Santa Cecilia, is a symbol of heavenly music and divine inspiration.
In short, St Cecilia with Two Angels is a masterpiece of Italian Baroque art that combines exquisite painting technique, impressive composition, and rich and profound symbology. It is a work that continues to captivate the public and represents one of Giovanni Martinelli's greatest artistic achievements.