Nicolas Loir (paris, 1624 – 1679) - Saint Mary Magdalene The Penitent

Nicolas LOIR (Paris, 1624 – 1679)
Penitent Saint Mary Magdalene

Oil on canvas, 58 x 71 cm

Circa 1665–1675

Trained under Simon Vouet and later Sébastien Bourdon, Nicolas Loir participated in major commissions under Louis XIV, including decorative cycles at Versailles and the Tuileries. Admitted to the Royal Academy in 1666, he is now undergoing a significant scholarly reassessment, with numerous works newly attributed to him.

Dated to around 1665–1675, this Penitent Magdalene belongs to Loir’s mature period. The expressive twist of the body, the upward gaze, and the delicate light effects are hallmarks of his style. The angelic figure holding the ointment jar—a symbolic attribute of the saint—illustrates Loir’s ability to bridge sacred iconography and decorative finesse, echoing the putti found throughout his engraved ornamental repertoire.

This painting closely relates to another version recently acquired by the Musée Bossuet in Meaux. It stands as a rare and sensitive example of French painting from the Grand Siècle and offers a compelling opportunity for discerning collectors.

The full expertise by François Marandet is available upon request.