The artwork, titled “Mary Magdalene at the door of Simon the Pharisee,” was created in 1853 by the artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Executed in Indian ink on paper using a pen, this piece is a quintessential representation of the Romanticism movement. Measuring 54 by 47.7 cm, it exemplifies the genre of religious painting. Presently, the artwork is housed at the Fitzwilliam Museum, part of the University of Cambridge, located in Cambridge, UK.
In the artwork, a scene is depicted where Mary Magdalene stands at the door of Simon the Pharisee. The composition is rich with detail and symbolism typical of the Romantic era. The prominent figure of Mary Magdalene, with her flowing garments and contemplative stance, draws immediate attention, while numerous other figures populate the background. Many of these figures exhibit emotional expressions and dynamic interactions, thereby enhancing the narrative quality of the painting. The intricacies of the architecture, the presence of a deer, and the skilled use of light and shadow highlight Rossetti’s mastery in creating a deeply atmospheric and evocative piece.
