Veronese's painting is a festive picture, but it lacks the mysticism inherent in the subject. The Virgin is seated at the top of three steps, between massive columns. St Catherine was a princess and Veronese represented her dressed in damask. Veronese's juxtaposed hues are at their best in the pair of angels seated at the lower left-hand corner who, instead of paying attention to the divine favour bestowed on St Catherine, seem to be arguing over a piece of music.
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