This icon depicts Saint Catherine, a venerated figure in Christianity. Saint Catherine is believed to have been martyred during the reign of Emperor Maxentius (305-312) in Alexandria. Her life and death are the subject of legend, though there is no definitive historical record. Traditionally, she is associated with the defeat of 50 pagan philosophers during a heated debate and her subsequent execution by beheading. She is venerated as the patron saint of learning, students, and several professions, including those of philosophers, scholars, librarians, teachers, writers, printers, tailors, and shoemakers.
