Donatello’s portrayal of a penitent Mary Magdalene.
Title of Art: A Gospel Woman
Subjects: Mary Magdalene
Artist: Donatello
Art Form: Sculpture
Exhibit Institution: Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Opera del Duomo Museum)
Exhibit Location: Florence, Italy
VM Image #: 0035
Photographer: Shala Graham
Date of Photograph: January 6, 2023
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A wood-carved statue by Donatello depicts penitent, prayerful, gaunt Mary Magdalene, covered with her long hair to her knees. The statue was likely created for and housed in the Florence Baptistery, from late 15th century until 1966. This view from the back.
Differing from contemporary depictions of Mary Magdalene that show her as a vibrant young woman, Donatello’s sculpture shows an emaciated woman who lives as a desert hermit. The sculpture reflects a tradition that conflated Mary Magdalene, Jesus's disciple, with Mary of Egypt, who lived as a hermit in the mid-fourth century. Carved by Donatello, the acclaimed fifteenth-century artist, near the end of his life, the statue is made from wood and retains some of its original pigmentation and gilding. Mary's long hair covers her figure, and her hands are lifted in prayer. This depiction of Mary Magdalene invites us to reflect on repentance, devotion, and the transitory nature of human life. The figure is barefoot and emaciated. There is no temptation to objectify this Mary Magdalene; rather, she invites us to consider her example of total devotion to God.