Who painted Magdalen?

Magdalen was painted by Italian 17th Century.

Where can I see Magdalen?

Magdalen is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Magdalen?

Magdalen is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Magdalen

Italian 17th Century

Magdalen is an ink print by the Baroque artist Italian 17th Century. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The work titled *Magdalen* is an etching that presents a solitary female figure seated upon a craggy ledge. She holds a book in one hand while the other hand is raised in a gestural pose. Behind her, two diminutive winged figures drift among a dynamic arrangement of clouds and foliage.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is identified as Mary Magdalene, suggested by her contemplative expression and the presence of a book, a common attribute linked to her biblical role as a penitent devotee. The accompanying winged beings may symbolize angels or spirits, reinforcing a spiritual or contemplative atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Executed in the etching medium, the image relies on precise incised lines and varying tonal washes to convey depth and movement. Sharp contouring defines the woman's features and the rugged ledge, while cross‑hatching creates the swirling clouds and foliage, producing a sense of kinetic energy within the composition.

History & Provenance

The print is catalogued simply as a type of print without further documented exhibition history or ownership record in the provided material. No specific date, artist name, or collection information is supplied, limiting the tracing of its provenance beyond its identification as an etching titled *Magdalen*.