Mary Magdalen Converting the People of Marseilles c. late 17th century

This anonymous drawing from the late 17th century depicts the biblical story of Mary Magdalene converting the people of Marseilles. The scene is laid out in two tiers, with Mary Magdalen preaching in the upper tier and a crowd kneeling at her feet in the lower tier. The loose, gestural lines and sketchy details give the drawing a sense of immediacy, suggesting that it was a quick study for a larger composition. The drawing’s small size and simple composition contribute to an intimate feel. It is a significant example of the continuing popularity of religious imagery in the late Baroque period, particularly the story of Mary Magdalen, who was viewed as a model of repentance and devotion. The work is currently held by the Minneapolis Institute of Art.