IMPORTANT OLD MASTER PAINTINGS AND HAUTE EPOQUE AUCTION, INCLUDING MODERN
Andalusian school of the 17th century. Circle of Pedro de Mena (Granada, 1628-Málaga, 1688). Penitent Magdalene. Polychrome wood carving. The repentant saint directs her gaze to the crucifix that she holds in her left hand while her hand draws a gesture of mystical rapture towards her chest, indicating her love and devotion to Jesus Christ. Her expressive and sharp face, the sad look are framed by her long hair that falls on her shoulders and her bust length to the waist. The dress is a criss-cross palm leaf sackcloth, tied at the waist with a rope, long to the ankles. The feet appear barefoot, the left one advanced to show the action of walking. It represents Mary Magdalene’s sorrow for a life of sin through her wrinkled forehead, her half-open mouth, her sad gaze, and her right hand on her chest. His faith in the expiation of sins is manifested by bowing his head and directing his gaze towards the crucifix, a symbol of redemption. The practice of penance is shown by bare feet, and is the means to be forgiven. The success of the representations of the Magdalene during the 17th century was enormous, as a personification of the concept of Christian repentance. Measurements: 80 x 43 x 39 cm
