Who painted Marie Magdalene?

Marie Magdalene was painted by Unknown in 1750.

Where can I see Marie Magdalene?

Marie Magdalene is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Marie Magdalene

Marie Magdalene is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1750, this black‑and‑white photograph titled “Marie Magdalene” is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The image presents a solitary woman holding a small, elaborately decorated pot, set against a dim background that hints at a distant landscape. The composition emphasizes quiet contemplation through the subject’s pose and the subdued lighting.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, dressed in a loose white garment with a dark shawl over her left shoulder, gazes to her left with a thoughtful expression. Her hair is pulled back, and she cradles the pot gently, suggesting reverence for the object. The scene evokes a mood of introspection, inviting viewers to consider the personal significance of the treasured vessel.

Technique & Style

The photograph relies on chiaroscuro contrasts typical of mid‑18th‑century portraiture, using deep shadows to frame the illuminated figure. The fine detail of the pot’s etched design is rendered sharply, while the background remains muted, creating depth without distracting from the subject. The overall aesthetic reflects a restrained, documentary approach to portraiture.

History & Provenance

Attributed to the artist identified as 37337_person, the work dates to circa 1750 and has been retained within the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings. Its acquisition history is not detailed in the source, but the piece has remained part of the museum’s ethnographic collection, indicating its relevance to cultural or material studies.

Context

The image aligns with 18th‑century ethnographic interests in documenting everyday objects and the individuals who use them. By focusing on a personal, possibly ritualistic object—a decorated pot—the photograph contributes to a broader visual record of material culture and the intimate relationships people form with such items.