S. M. Maddalena and S. Caterina D'alexandria 

Mariotto Albertinelli painted these two panels depicting S. M. Maddalena and S. Caterina D'alexandria during the Italian Renaissance. During this period, many artists used religious narratives to reflect the humanist values that were emerging at the time. Here we see Albertinelli portraying two iconic female saints, each carrying objects related to the narratives of their lives. Gender and power are central themes here, with each woman representing different facets of female strength and virtue, and their respective attributes symbolizing their stories. By depicting these figures, Albertinelli invites reflection on the roles and expectations assigned to women in the Renaissance society. The artist engages with the emotional dimensions of faith, inviting viewers to connect with the experiences of these women on a personal level. While working within traditional religious iconography, the artist's personal engagement shines through the intimate portrayals of these powerful women.