Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
Mary Magdalen was one of the most controversial women in the history of Christianity. The interpretation of Magdalen has ranged from prostitute to apostle. During the 16th century some European artists presented Magdalen as a sensual, almost classical Venus figure, as shown in this sculpture. Other interpretations focused on her later life when she had renounced all material goods and lived as a hermit. Finally she has been represented as an apostle of Christ, either teaching or studying.
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
With minor surface scratches, knocks, marks and chips consistent with age and handling. Wear and flaking to the gilded areas. Areas of paint loss throughout with more significant loss concentrated on the the proper left half of the face, the chin and a portion of the proper right cheek. Some areas of the polychromy likely refreshed. A section at the reverse of the wood base broken off. Small hole to the reverse of the head presumably where a halo was attached, now lacking. A hole in the uderside of the wood base where the piece attaches to a bespoke modern wood and metal stand.
Cost calculator
Lot 71Sale 19891
A female saint, probably Mary MagdaleneSPANISH, 17TH CENTURYEstimate: GBP 6,000 - 10,000
Enter your bid amount for an estimated cost
Bid amount
Please enter numbers onlyAmount must be higher than the starting bidAmount must be higher than the current bid
Buyer's premium
Loss, damage and liability
Shipping
Estimated Excise Duty
Artist Resale Royalty
Estimated total cost exclusive of customs duties/charges and tariffs