Antique Lithograph of Mary Magdalene

Well! Posted December 2007 - I guess everyone else is baffled too. I have wondered about this picture for years. My Grandfather had a huge print (litho?) which now belongs to my brother. I don't like it, but have often wondered about it. Did you ever find out its artist and date?

Interesting print. Here is what I think you have: It appears to be the lower portion (the main portion) of a larger painting of "Pentitent Magdalen" by Adriaen Isenbrant (Flemish) done in the 16th century. He died in the mid 1500's I believe. I was unable to find an image on line to show you, but check out the 13th paragraph of the following site: http://www.nytimes.com/2002/04/26/arts/art-review-whoever-she-was-her-sins-were-forgiven.html?sec=&spon=&pagewanted=all Interestingly, Mary Magdalene's primary emblem a jar is not depicted in this drawing. It is meant to remind the viewer of Mary Magdalene's role as the woman who went to the tomb to anoint Jesus after the Sabbath, and found him resurrected. She does usually appear with both a book and a skull in her grotto. (symbols of the contemplative life of reflection and penitence) Often a candle is present too. Does this help you? Garry (PS I am a new member here and hadn't seen your posting before.)

The original was painted by: Batoni, Pompeo, 1708-1787 Title: St. Mary Magdalene Date: ca.1742 Date destroyed or lost: 1945 Nationality: Italian Medium: Oil on canvas Circumstances of destruction or loss: Destroyed February 13-14, 1945 during three allied bombing raids of Dresden, or subsequent fires. No idea of value.