Symbols of Martyrdom
Martyrdom is symbolised not only by the palm, and the crown, as indicative of Victory over death and reward, but by the banner of Triumph over death and persecution. Also by the sword, as a symbol of violent death, or by other implements of execution. These are represented in conjunction with the individual martyr or saint, as attributes and as a means of identification.
As symbols personal to Christ, the emblems of the Passion and Crucifixion are proper to the Cross and chalice. Such, for instance, as the crown of thorns, the nails, scourge, whipping-post, ladder, spear, lantern, thirty pieces of silver, etc.