Christ Appearing to Mary Magdalen after His Resurrection c. 17th century

Curator: This is Luca Ciamberlano’s print, “Christ Appearing to Mary Magdalen after His Resurrection,” now housed in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It has a very immediate, arresting quality, don't you think? Magdalen's outstretched hand, Christ's serene gaze... Curator: Absolutely. The scene depicts a pivotal moment in Christian theology and underscores the Church's evolving attitude toward women. Magdalen is often seen as the apostle to the apostles, the first witness. Editor: And the symbols are so rich! The discarded tools on the ground hint at Christ's earthly work being done, now supplanted by the spiritual. And the city gate in the background—a new dawn for humanity. Curator: The composition guides us to see Magdalen's faith recognized. Yet, the print also reflects the patriarchal constraints of the era, highlighting a narrative crafted by men about a woman’s faith. Editor: It is striking how Ciamberlano captures both the intimacy and the vast theological implications in such a small image. Curator: A poignant intersection of faith, gender, and artistic interpretation within a specific socio-historical context.