Saint Cecilia 1766 - 1769

Cornelius Høyer created this miniature painting of Saint Cecilia in the late 18th century, a period marked by the Enlightenment's evolving views on women and the arts. Here, Cecilia isn’t just a saint; she’s an active participant in music-making. The painting presents Cecilia with a score in one hand and a violin in the other, set against an idyllic landscape, suggesting a harmonious connection between the saint, music, and nature. Typically, Saint Cecilia is depicted playing the organ, but Høyer's choice to feature the violin speaks to the changing musical landscape of the time. As we consider this shift, we can reflect on the roles afforded to women, both in religious iconography and in the broader cultural sphere. Høyer invites us to consider the multifaceted roles women could occupy, blending spirituality with artistic expression.