Object Description
Antique German porcelain plaque of Mary Magdalene by Meissen
German, 19th Century
Plaque: Height 18cm, width 25cm
Frame: Height 43cm, width 50cm, depth 7cm
This superb Meissen porcelain plaque portrays Mary Magdalene engrossed in reading, inspired by a 16th-century painting by Antonio Allegri, better known as Correggio (Italian, c. 1489–1534). In the New Testament, Mary Magdalene is remembered as a devoted follower of Jesus and the first to witness his resurrection. While later traditions have sometimes misrepresented her, the Gospels emphasize her role as a devoted disciple and an influential figure in early Christianity.
What sets this depiction apart from more familiar representations is its originality. Mary Magdalene is shown reclining in a grotto, completely absorbed in a large book, her pose delicate and subtly sensual – far removed from the conventional portrayals of her as penitential or sorrowful. This strikingly personal and intimate portrayal contributed to the image’s popularity.
The reverse of the plaque bears the renowned Meissen mark, confirming its authenticity. Framing the piece is an ornate carved giltwood surround, which enhances its visual impact and adds a sense of grandeur.
Celebrating a significant religious figure while demonstrating the exceptional craftsmanship of Meissen artists, this plaque is a highly desirable acquisition for collectors of fine porcelain and antique art.