Maria Magdalena lezend c. 1625

This 17th-century etching by Cornelis Bloemaert depicts Mary Magdalene reading, a popular subject in Baroque art. The image shows Mary, illuminated by a candle, engrossed in a book, a halo above her head signifying her holiness. The detailed rendering of the figure's face and drapery, along with the dramatic chiaroscuro, highlights the contemplative nature of the scene, typical of devotional art. This print, housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the artistic trends of the period, showcasing the Dutch master's skill in capturing religious subjects with realism and emotional depth.