39491 Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898)

The painting presents a full-length depiction of a young woman standing before an organ. She is positioned centrally within a vertical format, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a serene and contemplative expression. The figures posture suggests both grace and composure; she holds the organ’s lower manual with one hand while the other rests gently on her hip.
The artist has employed a palette dominated by warm tones – ochres, golds, and russets – which contribute to an overall atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. Light falls predominantly from the left, illuminating the womans face and upper body, while casting the lower portion in shadow, which subtly emphasizes her form. The drapery is rendered with meticulous detail, revealing a complex interplay of folds and textures that enhance the sense of volume and movement. A halo encircles her head, signifying sanctity.
Behind the figure, an architectural backdrop fades into a hazy distance, suggesting a space both enclosed and expansive. This ambiguity contributes to the painting’s ethereal quality, distancing it from any specific earthly location. The organ itself is depicted with considerable realism, its intricate details adding to the sense of technical mastery evident throughout the work.
The presence of the organ is significant; in artistic tradition, it often symbolizes harmony, divine music, and spiritual elevation. Here, the woman’s interaction with the instrument implies a connection between earthly skill and heavenly grace. The inscription SCECILIA at the base of the frame provides a crucial contextual clue, hinting at the subjects identity as a patron saint associated with music and martyrdom.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of faith, artistry, and sacrifice. The woman’s calm demeanor in the face of implied suffering suggests an acceptance of divine will and a dedication to higher ideals. The composition, with its verticality and centralized figure, reinforces a sense of stability and spiritual authority.