Magdalen Reading 1753

Curator: Looking at Jean Daullé's "Magdalen Reading," I am immediately struck by its quiet intimacy; the woman seems lost in thought, or perhaps in the very act of reading. Editor: Indeed. This print, made by Daullé in the 18th century, invites us to consider the role of women and literacy, particularly in representations of the Magdalen, a figure often associated with repentance and spiritual awakening. Curator: There's something so very peaceful about her posture, reclined as she is. You know, it makes me wonder what story she's encountering within those pages, what worlds are opening up to her. Editor: That’s interesting, given how depictions of Mary Magdalen have historically been used to reinforce ideas about female sin and redemption. Here, though, she seems to be finding knowledge, or perhaps even power, in the written word. Curator: I love that! It completely reframes the narrative. Editor: Exactly. Considering Daullé's context, it's compelling to see him, perhaps unintentionally, challenge those conventions. Curator: This print whispers of transformation, a quiet revolution of the mind. Editor: And it speaks volumes about who gets to control those narratives.