St Cecilia Statuette

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By Dr Michelle Doran Statuette of St Cecilia, patron saint of music, stands tall as a testament to her enduring legacy. According to the ancient Acta Sancta Caecilia, which dates back to the 5th century, Cecilia met her untimely demise at the hands of Turcius Almachius, prefect of Rome. The story goes that she miraculously survived for three days after her executioner failed to sever her head, leaving behind a haunting reminder of her brutal fate. This majestic statue is a faithful replica of the revered altar sculpture at the Basilica de Sancta Cecilia, Trastevere, Rome, crafted by the skilled hands of Stefano Moderno in AD 1600. The masterful work showcases the artist's expertise in Baroque sculpture and stands as one of the most celebrated examples of its kind. Interestingly, the statue is said to depict the saint's body exactly as it was found after her grave was exhumed in AD 1599, a poignant reminder of her enduring presence in history.