Christina von Stommeln was a Beguine who was ascribed mystical experiences, so that she gained the reputation of holiness and was worshiped in the area of the Duchy of Jülich and in the Archdiocese of Cologne…
Saint Christina, c. 1640
Oil on canvas
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, Florida
The Martyr Christina lived during the third century. She was born into a rich family, and her father was governor of Tyre. By the age of 11 the girl was exceptionally beautiful, and many wanted to marry her. Christina’s father, however, envisioned that his daughter should become a pagan priestess. To this end he placed her in a special dwelling where he had set up many gold and silver idols, and he commanded his daughter to burn incense before them. Two servants attended Christina…
Zaidan Gallery 