Artwork
The penitent Maria Magdalena
The penitent Maria Magdalena is an oil painting by the Symbolist artist Arnold Böcklin. It dates from 1873 and is held in the collection of the Hamburger Kunsthalle.
About this work
Overview
The penitent Maria Magdalena is a 1873 oil painting by Arnold Böcklin, held at the Hamburger Kunsthalle.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary Magdalene, shown as a contemplative, partially nude woman with red hair, gazing at a skull. Her introspective expression and the presence of the skull convey themes of mortality and vulnerability.
Technique & Style
Böcklin's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizing the subject's face and the skull.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Arnold Böcklin was a Swiss Symbolist painter. His five versions of the Isle of the Dead inspired works by several late Romantic composers.
