Stunning 19th Century French Watercolor of Saint Barbara with a Palm Branch. Purchased in Paris, no visible signature, artist unknown. In ornate carved wood French frame, some loss to gilt. PROVENANCE: From the Private Paris, France and Charleston SC Collection of J. Marterer, author of Paris 201, the Winner of the Benjamin Franklin Awards - GOLD MEDAL (Travel) and Independent Publisher Awards - SILVER MEDAL (Travel). In frame 18.25"x21.50"x2". Weight is 6 pds. Saint Barbara is always depicted with long flowing or braided hair and is often said to be the inspiration behind the story of Rapunzel. Saint Barbara was a Christian saint and martyr who won particular fame for the horrifying fact that her death sentence by beheading was carried out by her own father, a wealthy pagan who had first isolated her in a tower and then denounced her to the Roman authorities when she became a Christian. Her death was attended by numerous miracles, most impressively her father being struck dead by lightning after killing her. Today Barbara is perhaps best known as the patron saint of artillerymen, and miners. Among the many places named for her is Santa Barbara, California.

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