Noli Me Tangere is a religious artwork painted by Italian Renaissance artist Fra Angelico in 1440-42. The painting portrays a sacred event that occurred after Christ’s resurrection, where Mary Magdalene recognizes him and tries to embrace him, but he tells her not to touch him. The artwork is part of a series of frescoes depicting events from Christ’s life, with a predominant theme of depicting a sacred event witnessed by someone.
Fra Angelico completed the painting in a small cell at the San Marco convent in Florence. The painting shows Christ outside his tomb on the third day after his crucifixion. Its purpose was to aid meditation and inspire devotion in those who viewed it. The Noli Me Tangere may have been copied or reproduced as an oil painting, attesting to its significant influence as a piece of religious artwork.
Fra Angelico is renowned for his religious artwork, and the Noli Me Tangere is just one of his many masterpieces. His art is celebrated for its detailed depictions of biblical scenes and contributions to the development of Renaissance art. Overall, the Noli Me Tangere painting showcases Fra Angelico’s skill as an artist in depicting a profound moment in Christian history while inspiring viewers to reflect on their faith.