The Magdalen


The Magdalen (perhaps 1518-1519).
Probably by Correggio (Italian, active 1494; died 1534).
Oil on canvas.
The National Gallery, London.

Mary Magdelene is reading from a sacred text and she holds the pot of ointment with which she annointed Christ’s feet.

In her penitence in the wilderness she has abandoned all her jewels and finery and her hair is in disarray.

Probably a relatively early work by Correggio, but not in good condition.