Antonio da Trenta (fl. 1527-1540s), Attributed to. St Cecilia playing her harpsichord held by an angel, after Parmigianino
St Cecilia playing her harpsichord held by an angel, after Parmigianino (1503-1540)
This chiaroscuro woodcut depicts Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, seated at a harpsichord while an angel supports the instrument, a composition derived from Parmigianino's original design. Created from two wood blocks in grey and black, the print was originally cut around 1540 by Antonio da Trenta but was later reprinted by the renowned Renaissance printmaker Andrea Andreani between 1602 and 1610. The work exemplifies the sophisticated tonal effects achievable through the chiaroscuro woodcut technique, combining Mannerist elegance with the technical mastery required to print from multiple blocks in perfect registration.
- Medium
- Chiaroscuro woodcut, printed from two blocks in grey and black, circa 1540, but printed by Andrea Andreani circa 1602-10, on stiff laid paper without watermark, bearing ink inscription verso 'Andreani', sheet 250 x 245 mm (9 3/4 x 9 3/4 in), hinged into mount, some lines retouched with black wash, some surface dirt and minor toning and stains, (unframed), Provenance:, Acquired by the great-great-grandfather of the present owner (late 19th century);, Thence by family descent, Literature:, Bartsch
- Spotted At
- Auction House · Forum Auctions
🔨 Auction Lot
Prints & Works on Paper 1500-2026
March 31, 2026
Lot 292
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