Catherine-Joséphine Louise Marie-Thérèse de Sainte-Aïane was born into the illustrious world of 18th-century royalty.
Her father Louis-Joseph was the grandson of Louis-Antoine Guarocuya the Great, King of Sainte-Aiane. Her mother, Marie-Catherine, Comtesse de Saintilus, was an Aianian coffee heiress, a descendant of the island's ancient nobility, who died shortly after giving birth to her.
Catherine-Joséphine's upbringing was a testament to her father's progressive views. Despite the era's restrictions on women's education, she was provided with private tutors who guided her through the realms of languages, literature, science, and the arts. Fluent in French, Latin, and Creole and with a profound understanding of classical literature and philosophy, Catherine-Joséphine's intellect shone brightly. Her upbringing immersed her in the traditions of her French and Creole heritage. It instilled a deep respect for cultural diversity, a value she would later champion.
Catherine-Joséphine's entrance into the Aianian court was marked by her grace, intelligence, and striking beauty, which set her apart in the highly stratified society of the time. Her lineage and unique heritage made her a point of fascination and sometimes controversy. Still, Catherine-Joséphine navigated these challenges with poise and dignity.
Upon the death of her grandfather, King Louis-Philippe, her father inherited the throne as King of Saint Aiane. Though her father remarried, his second marriage produced no additional heirs and she remains heir-presumptive to the Aianian throne.
Catherine-Joséphine's inherited wealth was a symbol of her status and a tool to make a lasting impact. Her passion for the arts and education led her to become a dedicated patroness, fostering cultural exchange and supporting underrepresented artists and scholars. Her estate was a hub of intellectual discourse, hosting salons that brought together the era's greatest minds in philosophy, literature, and science. Her patronage extended to numerous prominent artists, musicians, and writers, leaving an indelible and awe-inspiring mark on the cultural landscape of her time.