St. Etheldreda and the Dynasty of Sanctity

This elegant watercolor portrait honors the holy dynasty of East Anglia—St. Etheldreda (St. Audrey) and her saintly family. Rendered in the signature Halo and Light Studios lifelike style, this piece features King Anna, Queen Sæwara, and their four daughters: St. Etheldreda, St. Seaxburh, St. Æthelburh, and St. Withburga.

Each figure radiates grace and dignity, set in soft Renaissance lighting with golden tones and ornate detailing. The youngest, Withburga, is shown with a doe, recalling her miraculous legend. This print beautifully evokes the legacy of female sanctity rooted in prayer, purity, and service.

St. Etheldreda (d. 679), daughter of King Anna of East Anglia, became abbess and foundress of the great monastery at Ely. Though married twice, she upheld a vow of virginity and lived in holiness. Her incorrupt body testified to her sanctity. Her sisters—St. Seaxburh, St. Æthelburh, and St. Withburga—also entered religious life and became saints, as did her niece, St. Ermenilda, and grand-niece, St. Werburga. Together, they formed a rare and revered dynasty of holy women.

Symbolism in the Art

• Lily – Etheldreda’s vow of virginity

• Crozier – Her role as abbess

• Doe – Withburga’s miraculous provision

• Chalice and scroll – Religious life and wisdom

• Golden halos – Sanctity in each family member canonized by the Church

Perfect For

• Catholic homeschool and classroom settings

• Gifts for daughters, mothers, nuns, or catechumens

• Celebrating feminine virtue and saintly role models

• Liturgical decor or saint feast day tables

• Spiritual motherhood inspiration

Product Details

• Instant digital download

• PNG format, high resolution

• Watercolor style in portrait orientation

• Ideal for print sizes up to 16x20 inches

• No watermark on final image 

Feast Days

• St. Etheldreda – June 23

• St. Seaxburh – July 6

• St. Æthelburh – October 11

• St. Withburga – July 8