Italian school; 17th century. Oil on copper. Measurements:... Lot 39

Italian school; 17th century. Oil on copper. Measurements: 13,5 x 10cm This work inspired by ancient models shows the image of a saint, placed in the centre of the composition on a golden background, which alludes to the divinity, in this case to the holiness. From the attributes she bears, it is very likely that this is a representation of Saint Catherine of Siena, who is dressed in the habit of the Dominican nuns, against a neutral background that enhances her physical presence, holding a book and a staff of lilies in her hands. Born in Siena around 1347, she took a vow of virginity at the age of seven. As her mother wanted to marry her off, she shaved her head. Received into the Third Order of Saint Dominic at the age of sixteen, she led an ascetic life in the convent that ruined her fragile health. She had a particular devotion to St Agnes of Montepulciano. According to legend, when Catherine visited the tomb of St Agnes, and bent down to kiss her foot, the saint raised it to the level of her lips. She was glorified for having helped bring Pope Gregory XI to Rome from Avignon. During the Western Schism, she sided with Urban VI. She died in Rome in 1380 and was canonised in 1461.