Sainte Marie Madeleine Penitent Eighteenth Religious Paintings Vanitas

The scene derives from the 13th century golden legend of Jacobus de Voragine, who tells how, after Mary Magdalene’s conversion and flight from Palestine, she took refuge in a mountain cave near Marseilles, where she spent the last thirty years of her life. At once pious, sensual and repentant, she lies in a sparse cave. On the pictorial level, the Penitent Sainte Marie-Madeleine of this talented painter is inspired by famous paintings of the sixteenth century by Correggio and Titian .
The limited palette of painting draws attention to the artist’s virtuoso treatment of his languorous subject. The holy penitent is bathed in light: its gently shaped tones of flesh provide a sensitive counterpoint to the cascading folds of its blue drapery. It is represented with a slightly luscious mouth and a long blonde hair very well treated. And while her naked bosom permeates the scene with sensual pleasure, the ample drape engulfing much of her body underlines the spiritual experience of the saint. The saint rests her right hand on a skull, characteristic of the imagery of vanities.

A very nice network of cracks is present on the painting which is according to me late seventeenth early eighteenth.
The painting has been previously repainted (probably in the 19th century), some old repaints are also present.
The painting requires some slight restorations, indeed some scratches are to report (see photos).
Like most paintings of that time, it is not to my knowledge signed. Of great quality, there is certainly a beautiful discovery to make for the one who will know to whom to attribute it.
The painting is sold with its beautiful 18th century setting that I think is original.

Dimensions with frame: 79 x 61 cm
Dimensions on sight: 65 x 48 cm

Photos are taken in natural light.
Neat packaging.
Shipping costs borne by the buyer.
I remain at your disposal for any further information and photos.