Spanish school following Flemish models; 17th century.

Spanish school following Flemish models; XVII century.
"Magdalene penitent".
Oil on canvas. Relined.
Measurements: 71 x 54 cm.
Mary Magdalene, who is mentioned in the New Testament as a distinguished disciple of Christ. According to the Gospels, she lodged and provided materially to Jesus and his disciples during their stay in Galilee, and was present at the Crucifixion. She was a witness of the Resurrection, as well as the one in charge of transmitting the news to the apostles. She is also identified with the woman who anointed the feet of Jesus with perfumes before his arrival in Jerusalem, so her main iconographic attribute is a knob of essences, like the one shown here. Alone, Mary Magdalene is usually depicted as we see here, doing penance in the desert, repentant for her past sins. The story of this saint serves as an example of Christ's forgiveness, and conveys the message of the possibility of redemption of the soul through repentance and faith.