This particular painting of St. Catherine, and the Christian legend behind the painting, has intrigued, frightened and awed my soul since a little boy.
From Alexandria, circa 1'st century, she refused to deny her conversion to the new religion, thus she was tortured on the Roman Wheel; a device to ensure the victims bones are broken and death would be entertaining for the crowds. Something went wrong during the execution. After the the third try, the wheel somehow broke into pieces. The executioner's, not wanting to lose face, untied her from the wheel and cut her head off...as legend goes, a strong wind, dust blinding the crowds, through the darkness, strangers appeared, wrapping her in a clean cloth, and carried her to her burial place on Mt. Sinai.
After the dust storm settled, the crowd travelled up the mountain to see a grave and headstone, claiming her love for God. Most went to their knees, while others felt disappointed that the execution was not more entertaining.
Despite the current Israeli and Arab bombs destroying one of the most holy places on earth, pilgrims continue their treks to the grave sight of St. Catherine.
This painting truly depicts the story.
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