The Penitent Magdalene (Magdalena poenitens) from The Large Landscapes 1550 - 1560

Johannes van Doetecum I created this print of The Penitent Magdalene from The Large Landscapes. The image shows the figure of Mary Magdalene in the bottom right corner, a religious figure known for repentance. This print, made in the Netherlands, reflects the religious and social environment of the 16th century. The detailed landscape with its rolling hills, forests, and distant towns highlights the cultural value placed on the natural world. The inclusion of a religious figure within this landscape invites viewers to contemplate the relationship between humanity, nature, and the divine. Consider how the print uses visual codes, such as the contrast between the wilderness and the distant town, to create meaning. What might this contrast suggest about the social values and beliefs of the time? Researching the history of landscape art and the role of religion in 16th-century Dutch society can provide greater insight into the print's broader cultural and historical context.