Mary Magdalen, after Algardi's statue in s. Silvestro al Quirinale 1650 - 1653

This red chalk drawing, "Mary Magdalen," was created by the Italian artist Luca Giordano between 1650 and 1653. Giordano's depiction of Mary Magdalen is a study after a statue by Alessandro Algardi, found in the church of San Silvestro al Quirinale in Rome. Giordano's drawing captures the somber and contemplative pose of the repentant Mary Magdalen, who is traditionally associated with the act of anointing Christ’s feet with her hair. This drawing demonstrates Giordano’s talent for capturing the three-dimensionality of sculpture in a two-dimensional medium, showcasing his mastery of the art of drawing.