Boetvaardige Maria Magdalena 1833 - 1885

Frédérique O'Connell-Miethe created this etching of the repentant Mary Magdalene in the 19th century. Here, Magdalene, a biblical figure often associated with both sin and redemption, embodies a complex interplay of societal expectations and spiritual yearning. Consider the visual codes at play. In 19th-century Europe, representations of women were often polarized between idealized purity and fallen sexuality. Magdalene, as depicted here, challenges such simplistic categorizations. The cross, almost an afterthought in the top left, stands as a symbol of institutional salvation. To truly understand this piece, we need to delve into the archives, exploring the social and religious norms of O’Connell-Miethe’s time. This approach allows us to interpret art not as isolated objects, but as products of their cultural moment.