Maria Magdalena 1558 - 1562

Philips Galle created this engraving, Maria Magdalena, in the late 16th century. Galle was a leading printmaker in Antwerp, a city at the heart of the religious and political upheaval of the Reformation. This image presents Mary Magdalene, a figure often associated with repentance. The setting merges elements of classical architecture with biblical narrative, reflecting the period's interest in integrating faith with classical learning. But this Magdalene departs from traditional depictions. Instead of a simple, sorrowful figure, she is adorned in elaborate garments and jewelry, a signifier of wealth and status. This opulent portrayal can be interpreted as a reflection on how the Church, despite its teachings on humility, was often associated with wealth and power. The emotional complexity of the piece asks us to consider the intersections of spirituality, gender, and social status during a time of great religious change.