St. Catherine of Siena (Franceschini)

St. Catherine of Siena (1347-1380) was a lay Dominican or tertiary, a mystic and stigmatist, advisor to popes and politicians, and author and Doctor of the Church. In this late Baroque painting by Baldassare Franceschini (1611-1690), St. Catherine is depicted in a Dominican nun’s habit and wearing a crown of thorns. Hands clasped, she is praying before a crucifix that rests on a human skull, symbol of life’s transitory nature. In the background on the desk or table is a vase of lilies, a symbol of her purity; in the foreground, a heart. In typical Baroque fashion, the scene is theatrically lit focusing the viewer’s attention on the Saint. The scene recalls and combines two visions St. Catherine experienced. In one vision, Jesus presented her with two crowns--one of gold and precious gems, the other of thorns--and asked her to choose between them. She chose the thorns for her earthly life that she might be crowned with glory and the golden one in heaven. And, in yet another vision, Jesus exchanged His heart with hers. + St. Catherine of Siena is a patron of the sick, nurses, and nursing services; fire fighters and fire prevention; and Rome, Italy, and Europe. + Feast: April 29