Saint Margaret Raphael (1483-1520)

The painting depicts Saint Margaret of Antioch, a Christian martyr. She is shown in a powerful and serene pose, standing over a large serpent, which she holds pierced by a staff. Her gaze is directed downwards, not in fear, but with a sense of resolute triumph. She is dressed in classical attire, with a blue gown and a red mantle draped over her shoulders. The serpent, with its gaping mouth and coiled body, represents the devil or paganism, which Saint Margaret is shown overcoming through her faith.

The subtexts in this image are rich with religious and symbolic meaning.

• The Triumph of Faith and Purity: Saint Margaret is renowned for her steadfastness in faith despite persecution and for her vow of virginity which she refused to break. Her victory over the serpent symbolizes the triumph of Christian virtue over evil, temptation, and the forces of paganism or heresy.
• Spiritual Warfare: The serpent is a common symbol of evil, the devil, or spiritual opposition. The act of Saint Margaret piercing and dominating it represents the ongoing spiritual battle that believers face and the victory that faith can bring.
• Intercession and Protection: As a saint, Margaret is also a figure of intercession for those who pray to her, particularly during childbirth, a testament to her legend where she was swallowed by a dragon (often interpreted as a serpent or demonic entity) and miraculously emerged unharmed. Her depiction in a position of power over the beast can be seen as a visual representation of her protective power.
• Martyrdom and Divine Grace: The scene, while depicting a miraculous event, also alludes to her martyrdom. Her calm demeanor suggests divine grace and the assurance of salvation, even in the face of death or immense struggle.