Mary Magdalene - Giacinto Brandi (rome, 1621-1691)

"Mary Magdalene"
Giacinto Brandi (Rome, 1621-1691)
Oil painting on canvas
Period II ^ Half of the 17th century
Canvas size 92 x 68 frame 105 x 80
Excellent  conservation.

Certain work of the great Roman master Giacinto Brandi, this extraordinary canvas of incredible drama and of the highest pictorial level is considered one of his most significant creations. Brandi, celebrated as one of the main interpreters of the Roman Baroque with his masterpieces exhibited in the basilicas of the capital, painted some splendid portraits of Mary Magdalene interpreted in an absolutely personal way and, albeit with notable variations, always with the same unmistakable connotations. Without any doubt this version can be considered as the most successful, both from the pictorial point of view and as regards the devotional aspect.
The overwhelming beauty of the protagonist is disfigured by pain and the message of repentance takes on tones of the highest drama.
It is evidently a work of great effect that violently strikes the viewer and involves him in a mix of beauty and disturbance.
The splendid condition of the painting also allows a perfect reading of it down to the smallest details.