Penitent Magdalene

Domenikos Theotokopoulos, called El Greco Greek, 1541–1614 The Penitent Magdalene, ca. 1580–1585 Oil on canvas This painting depicts Mary Magdalene, a symbol of the power of repentance. A reformed prostitute, the Magdalene washed and anointed Christ’s feet, leading him to pardon her sins. Her long hair and ointment jar reference this service to Christ, while the skull and ivy symbolize death, resurrection and immortality. The heavenly reward for her ardent faith is suggested by the light breaking overhead. El Greco often painted the Magdalene and devotional images of other penitent saints. Here we see examples of his typical style: expressive brushwork, eerie lighting and elongated forms. Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, 30-35

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

painting by El Greco (Museum: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art)