Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Together with her gemmed crown and luxurious cloak, the imposing scale of this royal figure creates an impression of majestic power. She gazes steadfastly at a book, indicating both piety and wisdom. Though the sword in her hand and the wheel at her side were later hacked away, enough traces remain to confirm that she is Saint Catherine, who was martyred with these devices for refusing to marry the pagan emperor Maxentius. He appears as a small, grimacing figure trampled under her feet, reflecting not only Catherine’s spiritual victory but also the promise that virtuous rulers will triumph over corrupt tyrants.