Sainte Marie l’Egyptienne 1861

Jean-Jacques Henner painted Sainte Marie l’Egyptienne in the 19th century. The work shows Mary of Egypt, a prostitute turned Desert Mother, in quiet contemplation. Henner's choice of subject is fascinating, as the French Third Republic was staunchly secular, and images of women in the bible were often used to promote ideals of domesticity. Instead, Henner represents an unconventional, solitary figure, naked but for a loincloth. He focuses on the moment of repentance, but shows a sensuous woman. Henner exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon, and this painting has a strong academic style, but it also hints at the Symbolist movement. As art historians, we can research the changing attitudes toward religion, gender, and sensuality in 19th-century France. Henner's painting, while traditional in technique, engages with the shifting social and cultural landscape.