The Penitent Magdalene
2018 © Maxim Tabachnik
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The Penitent MagdaleneCaravaggio

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This painting (1594–95) shows Mary Magdalene seated in repentance, jewels cast aside at her feet. With downcast eyes and folded hands, she embodies both sensual beauty and spiritual transformation. Caravaggio merges naturalism with sacred symbolism, turning penitence into a deeply human, intimate moment of grace.