Saint Mary Magdalene, with an Angel [left panel] c. 1340

This is Saint Mary Magdalene with an Angel, a tempera on panel work by Pietro Lorenzetti. The painting presents a striking composition of the saint set against a radiant gold background. Lorenzetti employs bold color contrasts, most notably in the red of Mary’s cloak, which immediately draws the eye and creates a focal point. The figure is framed within a golden halo, emphasizing her sanctity and importance in the narrative. Lorenzetti's treatment of light and shadow gives the figure a sense of volume and presence. He skillfully manipulates the interplay between flatness and depth, typical of the Sienese painting style, to create a composition that is both stylized and lifelike. The angel at the top adds another layer to the composition, drawing the eye upward and suggesting a divine connection. The painting’s structure, with its blend of formal design and spiritual intent, invites us to consider how artistic elements can convey complex meanings.