Artwork

Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene)

Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene), by Alonso Cano, oil, 1640
Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene), by Alonso Cano, oil, 1640

Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene) is an oil painting by Alonso Cano. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.

About this work

Overview

Noli me Tangere is a 1640 oil painting by Alonso Cano, depicting a scene from Christian scripture. It is housed at the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Mary Magdalene kneeling before the resurrected Christ, who appears as a gardener. Christ wears a loincloth and holds a stick, while Mary Magdalene is dressed in an orange robe and yellow cloak. Their interaction is set against a natural backdrop of trees and hills.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, with strong contrasts between light and dark areas. This technique emphasizes the figures and their interaction, drawing the viewer's attention to the emotional intensity of the scene.

“Noli me tangere” – Resurrected Christ appearing to Mary Magdalene (John 20:14-17)
“Noli me tangere” – Resurrected Christ appearing to Mary Magdalene (John 20:14-17), Denys Calvaert

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alonso Cano

Artist

Alonso Cano

Alonso Cano (1601–1667) was an artist, born in Granada.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene)?

Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene) was painted by Alonso Cano in 1640.

Where can I see Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene)?

Noli me Tangere (Christ Appearing as a Gardener to Mary Magdalene) is held by Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.