Saint Catherine Of Siena By Ottaviano Lazzerini In The Church Of San Biagio In Montepulciano, Italy. Stock Photo

Pictured is a marble statue of Saint Catherine of Siena by Ottaviano Lazzerini in the Church of San Biagio in Montepulciano, Italy. It is one of four statues of saints completed by Lazzerini for the main altar in 1584. She is often depicted in art wearing the Dominican habit and a crown of thorns, symbolizing her spiritual union with Christ and her participation in His sufferings. The lily, symbolizing purity, and a book or pen, representing her writings, are also common attributes associated with her. She is venerated as the patron saint of Italy, Europe, fire prevention, nurses, and those suffering from illnesses.