Tuesday 15 May 2007

Wed Stamper/Turquoise/St Catherine of Alexandria


I have found this little turquoise talisman in a changing room on the floor, it obviously fell off someone's bag, or dress. When I showed it to the girl working there, she dismissively waved her hand, so I took it with me.
So, here is a real turquoise for the week's challenge, as worn by St Catherine of Alexandria.
Legend states that Catherine was the daughter of Constus, governor of Alexandria in Egypt. She is said to have received a "most splendid education." She declared to her parents that she would only enter into marriage with someone who surpassed her in reputation, wealth, beauty and wisdom. Catherine's mother was secretly a Christian, and sent her to a hermit who told her of a youth who surpassed her in everything, such that "His beauty was more radiant than the shining of the sun, His wisdom governed all creation, His riches were spread throughout all the world."[1]

Having prayed and received a vision that urged her baptism, she became a Christian and was transported to heaven in vision and betrothed to Christ by the Virgin Mary (this ancient theme of a mystical marriage to a deity is familiar in the ecstatic mythology of the eastern Mediterranean and Anatolia). (See Wikipedia for more on Catherine).
Stamps used: Stampsmith
Papers: Basic Grey

13 comments:

x said...

Ohhh another great piece. ;)

Sheens said...

Galina that is so beautiful! I was mesmerised by her eyes!

Paula Whittaker said...

wow another a original and stunning piece.....and I was really interested to learn about Catherine, this is a legend I havent heard before. TFS!

Zuzu's Blog said...

Galina this is very original and lovely

Dymphie said...

Gorgeous! Thanks for the legend.

johanna said...

this is an absolutely wonderful collage and the legend is really interesting!

Sharon said...

Galina, you are so informative and talented. Another beautiful piece. :D

Kaz said...

this is really beautiful Galina, I love the legend and she is just gorgeous.

Gillian .... said...

congrats on this beautiful piece been chosen galina xx

*Beatriz Jennings* said...

COOL!

Bety :)

Caroline Moore said...

This is beautiful Galina. Thank you for leaving a comment on my blog - I discovered your blog only yesterday too and I'm delighted you have now found your way to mine.

Debby said...

Galina this is beautiful! I love it.

Debby

Seona said...

Beautiful and such an interesting legend too. Thanks for sharing it.