Saint Barbara holding tower

“The figure of Saint Barbara, protector against lightning and sudden death, stands casually as if in a moment of repose. She holds the tower in her left hand as if on a platter at about waist level, while her right hand holds a book by her side. Although seemingly closed, the book is actually held slightly open by the insertion of her third finger between its carved pages. This detail, coupled with the meticulous rendering of the stone courses of the tower, its door with keyhole and metal hinges, windows, and crowning crenellations, reflects the high quality of workmanship evident in this piece.” (Joan A. Holladay and Susan L. Ward, _Gothic Sculpture in America III: The Museums of New York and Pennsylvania_, 2016, 344)

Sources:
- Joan A. Holladay and Susan L. Ward, _Gothic Sculpture in America III: The Museums of New York and Pennsylvania_, 2016, 344.