Who painted Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso]?

Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso] was painted by Federico Barocci in 1566.

Where can I see Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso]?

Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso]?

Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso] is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso]

Federico Barocci , 1566

Half-Length of Mary Magdalene [verso] is a chalk drawing by the Renaissance artist Federico Barocci. It dates from 1566 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1566 drawing, executed in black chalk heightened with white on blue paper, is attributed to Federico Barocci, an Italian Renaissance painter and printmaker. The work depicts a half-length figure of Mary Magdalene, characterized by delicate shading and highlights.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Mary Magdalene, is portrayed with her gaze cast downward and her right hand placed on her chest, conveying a sense of contemplation or penitence. Her facial features and body are rendered with subtlety, while loose, flowing lines depict her long hair.

Technique & Style

Barocci employed black chalk for the primary drawing, with selective white highlights to enhance the subject's facial and bodily features, achieving a sense of depth and volume. The style, marked by nuanced shading, anticipates the Baroque period's emphasis on chiaroscuro.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1566, this drawing is part of Barocci's oeuvre, which significantly influenced the transition to the Baroque style, notably in the work of later artists like Rubens. The drawing's specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

As a Renaissance work from central Italy, it reflects the period's artistic values, with Barocci's innovative use of chiaroscuro contributing to the evolution of European art.

Legacy

This drawing exemplifies Barocci's impactful style, which paved the way for Baroque artists. Its delicate lines and shading techniques remain a study point for understanding the Renaissance to Baroque artistic transition.

Artist & collection

Artist

Federico Barocci

Federico Barocci (also written Barozzi) (c. 1535 – 30 September 1612) was an Italian Renaissance painter and printmaker. His original name was Federico Fiori, and he was nicknamed Il Baroccio. His work was highly…