"Penitent Magdalene"
Alessandro Varotari, known as Padovanino (Padua, 1588 – Venice, 1649).
Oil on canvas, cm 117 x 147.5
Set in a clearing that descends from the inventions of Giorgione and Titian, a pair of celestial creatures with an infantile appearance is on the sides of the penitent covered only by long blond hair. While the little angel on the left vivaciously holds the vase of ointment, a specific attribute of the sinner described in the Gospel of Luke, the other is kneeling, taken from the back in three-quarters view, intent on prayer.
The work demonstrates a qualitative level such as to guarantee the full autograph of Padovanino.
Expertise: Prof. Enrico Lucchese