Large Terracotta Statue Representing Mary Magdalene In Ecstasy (1700-1750)

According to a French legend, Mary Magdalene and her brother Lazarus arrived in Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, in the south of France, after being sent by the Jews across the Mediterranean in a boat without a sail. From there, they traveled to Marseille to preach the Gospel. According to this legend, Mary Magdalene lived for thirty years in a cave as penance for her dissolute youth. Magnificent and highly detailed statue of Mary Magdalene dating from the first half of the 18th century. In iconography, she is often depicted with long, luxuriant hair that covers her nakedness.

In the Baroque period, her penitence was further emphasized by the unflattering animal skins in which she was dressed. Although this statue dates from the first half of the 18th century, it still displays all the characteristics of French Baroque, with a typical understated opulence.