The Risen Christ as a Gardener appearing to Mary Magdalene by Aegidius Sadeler II

The Risen Christ as a Gardener appearing to Mary Magdalene c. 1600

print, engraving

pencil drawn

toned paper

light pencil work

print

pencil sketch

charcoal drawing

charcoal art

pencil drawing

charcoal

engraving

pencil art

watercolor

This engraving by Aegidius Sadeler II depicts the biblical scene of the Risen Christ appearing to Mary Magdalene as a gardener. Created in c. 1600, the artwork showcases the masterful use of chiaroscuro, a technique utilizing strong contrasts of light and shadow, to create depth and drama. The composition centers on the encounter between Christ, holding a gardening tool, and Mary Magdalene, who appears startled yet hopeful. The detailed background offers a glimpse of a distant cityscape, hinting at the worldly context of this miraculous event. This engraving is a powerful representation of faith and resurrection, demonstrating the artist's skill in translating biblical narratives into visual art.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Aegidius Sadeler Sadeler was the court engraver to Emperor Rudolf II and his successors, Matthias and Ferdinand II. Sadeler’s brilliant engraving style and technique are indebted to the work of Hendrik Goltzius. In addition to engraving portraits, he worked plates based on the designs and paintings of major artists—here the work of Bartholomeus Spranger. The engraving shows the risen Christ’s encounter with Mary Magdalene, who initially mistakes him for the gardener (John 20:11-18). He raises his wounded hand, famously saying “Noli me tangere.” (Do not touch me.)