Pity, sorrow, even revulsion. These are some of the reactions to Donatello’s stunning sculpture “Penitent Magdalene.” At the time it was created, around 1453-55, it astonished its viewers because of its realism.

 

There is a debate in the art community about the reason or motivation that Donatello had for sculpting the work, although it was likely commissioned for Florence’s Baptistry. But there’s no questioning the brilliance of the sculpture and its impact on all who witness it. In fact, the uncertainty about the sculpture’s origin only adds to its mystery, its gravity, its legacy. It makes Magdalene’s exotic appearance all the more intriguing.

 

The unique sculpture can be seen in Florence’s small but wonderful Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, located directly across from the city’s landmark, the Duomo.

 

Donatello’s Message

The figure of Magdalene stands nearly six feet tall and is composed entirely of wood. To a casual observer, Magdalene appears to be wearing rags; however, when you look closer it’s clear that she’s actually “clothed” by her long, ragged hair.

 

Her hands are close together with her fingertips barely touching, an indication of piety and repentance. Her right knee is bent as if she’s about to take a step. She is positioned in front of a statue of Christ in the museum, as though she is attempting to walk toward him.

 

The appearance of Magdalene’s body is skeletal and

haggard. Her face is tortured, with signs of weariness

from years spent fasting in a cave (because she wished

to survive solely on “heavenly nourishment”). While her

emaciated body shows the physical deprivation she

endured, she also appears surprisingly strong. Her

arms are even muscular.

 

It’s clear that her both her sinful past and her reformed

life as an ascetic have taken their toll on her body and

soul. Despite her pain, her expression is one of absolute

devotion and determination. And that’s the artist’s message. Donatello sculpted Mary’s appearance to tell a story of repentance and redemption. She stands before the viewer as a penitent follower of Christ.

 

“Penitent Magdalene” is a jarring work that shattered the norm in its day. To the modern viewer, it can mean more than just witnessing a great work of art; like many masterpieces, it can inspire the viewer so that beholding the sculpture itself can be a life experience.

 

Magdalene’s life

Mary Magdalene’s life was an interesting one. She was a “woman of sin,” famous for her beauty and long, flowing blond tresses, until she met Jesus and became one of his most steadfast followers. Mary Magdalene was a special disciple of Christ, with a deep understanding of his teachings and a strong desire to live by them. Magdalene’s redemption and faith have been a source of inspiration for many.

 

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo (Museum of the Works of the Cathedral) is located just east of the Duomo (technically called the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore) in Florence, Italy. The museum, which opened in 1891, contains many of the original works of art created for the Duomo. In addition to Donatello’s “Penitent Magdalene,” the museum is home to Lorenzo Ghiberti‘s doors (created for the Baptistry; Michelangelo called them the “Gates of Paradise”), and “The Deposition,” a poignant pietà that Michelangelo sculpted late in life for his own tomb. This museum, unlike some others in Florence, is not overrun by crowds and tour groups. It represents something of a hidden gem. Note that the museum is currently closed – it’s being expanded and renovated with the expected reopening in fall of 2015.

 

By Michael Ardizzone