This is a portrait, by Lotto, of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, an early Christian princess and scholar, who converted thousands and was martyred for her Faith. The virgin martyr is portrayed wearing a crown to show her status as a ruler, and pearls and a ring to symbolize her consecration to Christ. She holds a palm to represent her martyrdom. Saint Catherine is one of the saints who appeared to Saint Joan of Arc, over a thousand years after her martyrdom.