Christ at the table of Simon the Pharisee, Mary Magdalene washing his feet with her hair
Original title: Christ at the table of Simon the Pharisee, Mary Magdalene washing his feet with her hair
kurzbeschreibung
This engraving by Marcantonio Raimondi, made around 1520–25, presents the biblical episode in which Mary Magdalene dries Christ's feet with her hair during a banquet at the house of Simon the Pharisee. As a print of the Italian Renaissance, it embodies the narrative and formal concerns of that era.
Description
The viewer's eye is drawn first to the kneeling woman in the foreground, bending over the feet of a seated figure and drying them with her long hair—Mary Magdalene and Christ. Behind them, several people gather around a set table, giving the image spatial depth and narrative coherence. The arrangement feels balanced: the main figure occupies the front zone, while the others form a circle around the meal. As an engraving, the image remains monochrome; the lighting is restrained, yet the figures and setting are rendered in detail.
Context
Marcantonio Raimondi, an Italian engraver of the Renaissance, is best known for his reproductive prints after works by Raphael. This engraving dates from around 1520–25, when Raimondi was active in Rome and collaborating with Raphael. In its treatment of the biblical scene, the print follows the Italian artistic tradition of the early sixteenth century, which combined religious subjects with naturalistic detail and a clear layout.
Impact
The balanced arrangement and the calm, dignified poses of the figures lend the scene a monumental quality. The intimate action in the foreground is emphasized by the detailed rendering and subdued lighting, creating a sense of emotional closeness to the event.
Technique
This print was made using engraving: the design is incised into a copper plate and then printed. This technique allows for fine lines and precise detail, as can be seen in the clothing and facial features. The monochrome appearance and restrained contrasts are characteristic of engraving from this period.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)