Christ appearing to Mary Magdalen(?) 1740 - 1802

Giuseppe Canale created this print, Christ appearing to Mary Magdalen(?), in the 18th century. Religious art like this was often commissioned by the church, shaping both its content and its public role. The image depicts a biblical scene through the visual codes of its time. Made in Italy, it reflects the strong influence of the Catholic church. Consider how geography and religion influenced its creation. Is it commenting on the social structures of its time or reinforcing them? To understand this work better, we can explore period documents, theological texts, and artistic treatises to understand its place within the culture of 18th-century Italy. Approaching art from a historical perspective reveals how its meaning is always tied to its social and institutional context.