Artwork
Mary Magdalen
Mary Magdalen is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Jan Gossaert. It dates from 1530 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
Jan Gossaert, also known as Jan Mabuse, painted 'Mary Magdalen' around 1530. The work is now in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary Magdalene, shown seated in contemplation, holding an ornate golden vase. Her calm demeanor and introspective gaze suggest a moment of quiet reflection.
Technique & Style
Gossaert's 'Mary Magdalen' exemplifies the Mannerist style, characterized by refined composition and stylized figures. The artist's use of rich colors and intricate details, such as the gold embroidery on the subject's cuffs, adds to the work's elegance.
History & Provenance
Gossaert, trained in the Flemish tradition, was influenced by Renaissance art during his travels to Italy. This exposure is evident in his later work, including 'Mary Magdalen', which showcases his integration of Italian Renaissance elements into his native style.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Gossaert (c. 1478 – 1 October 1532) was a French-speaking painter from the Low Countries also known as Jan Mabuse (the name he adopted from his birthplace, Maubeuge) or Jennyn van Hennegouwe (Hainaut), as he called…
