An Angel Appearing to Saint Catherine of Alexandria in Prison (recto); Volute (verso)

Anonymous, Spanish, School of Seville, 17th century

Public domain photograph of 17th-18th century drawing, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

St. Catherine of Alexandria was a 4th-century Christian martyr and saint. According to tradition, she was a learned and beautiful woman who converted to Christianity and became a noted defender of the faith. She was imprisoned and subjected to various tortures, including being broken on a wheel, but survived. She is said to have converted the emperor Maxentius to Christianity before her ultimate execution. St. Catherine is the patron saint of philosophers, students, and preachers and is venerated by the Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and Coptic Churches.