The Magdalen with the Smoking Flame, c. 1640
by #Georges_La_Tour
oil on canvas, 117 x 91.77 cm
Los Angeles County Museum of Art, USA
About the artwork:
The painting portrays Mary Magdalene seated next to a burning flame, which illuminates her figure against the dark background. The flame, possibly a metaphor for divine presence or inner enlightenment, casts a soft, dramatic light across her face and figure. This use of light and shadow is characteristic of La Tour's style and adds a sense of depth and emotion to the painting.
