17th Saint Mary Magdalene Mechelen Alabaster Sculpture

Sculpture in the round in alabaster, early 17th century, work of the masters of Mechelen. Tiny traces of gilding. Lacks.

Richly dressed, the fingers of the hand loaded with rings, a crown on the head from which deviates a veil which barely covers the flowing hair, the left hand placed on the heart are attributes which make one think of a saint, specifically Saint Mary Magdalene; unfortunately the right hand is missing, which probably supported an attribute that would have given iconographic certainty, but the elements are still numerous. There also seems to be a hole on the head, then closed, which suggests a halo, and which would confirm the Magdalen, in fact.

Mechelen, known since the 16th century for its splendid production of alabaster, is above all famous for its reliefs and caskets; in reality there is a limited production of small quality sculptures.

Measure

H cm 23.5
W cm 11.5
D cm 7.5