Artwork
Landscape with a Penitent Magdalene
Landscape with a Penitent Magdalene is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Cornelis Cort. It dates from 1573 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Landscape with a Penitent Magdalene is a 1573 engraving on laid paper by Cornelis Cort, a Dutch artist known in Italy as Cornelio Fiammingo. The work combines a natural landscape with a religious figure in the foreground.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts Mary Magdalene kneeling in prayer beside a cross, set amidst a somber, densely forested landscape with twisted trees and jagged rocks. The composition conveys a sense of solemnity and contemplation.
Technique & Style
Executed using tiny etched lines, the print features deep shadows and fine details, characteristic of Cort's engraving technique. The absence of bright colors enhances the overall heavy and quiet atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Created during Cort's later years in Italy, where he established his reputation as an engraver, the work is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis Cort (c. 1533 – c. 17 March 1578) was a Dutch engraver and draughtsman. He spent the last 12 years of his life in Italy, where he was known as Cornelio Fiammingo.
