MASOLINO da Panicale
(b. 1383, Panicale, d. 1447, Firenze)

St Catherine Refusing to Worship Idols

1425-31
Fresco
Castiglione Chapel, San Clemente, Rome

The picture shows the scene on the lunette of the left-hand wall, depicting St Catherine Refusing to Worship Idols. In an elaborate temple setting, Catherine is pointing toward heaven, while the emperor, here bareheaded, gazes up at the idolatrous statue atop the altar. His retainers are crowded behind them, one of them, only partially visible, is sounding a trumpet.