Artwork
The penitent Mary Magdalene
The penitent Mary Magdalene is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Godfried Schalcken. It dates from 1703 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
The Penitent Mary Magdalene is a 1703 oil painting by Godfried Schalcken, a Dutch artist known for his refined genre scenes and portraits.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary Magdalene in contemplation, seated in a dimly lit space with a lamp casting a warm glow on her face. Her introspective expression and posture convey a sense of quiet penance.
Technique & Style
Schalcken's use of chiaroscuro, a technique emphasizing contrasts between light and dark, highlights the subject's face and clothing. The effect is characteristic of the artist's skill in capturing candlelight and is associated with the Rococo movement.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Alte Pinakothek's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Godfried Schalcken (8 October 1643 – 16 November 1706) was a Dutch artist who specialized in genre paintings and portraits.
