Christus verschijnt als tuinman aan Maria Magdalena 1673

Editor: We're looking at "Christ Appears to Mary Magdalene as a Gardener," an engraving from 1673 by Adriaen Lommelin, held at the Rijksmuseum. It’s such a detailed image, almost photographic in its rendering of textures. I'm struck by how serene and almost…domestic, this scene feels despite the obvious religious significance. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It’s fascinating, isn’t it? Here we see Christ presented with a gardening tool, and Mary Magdalene reaching towards him – a beautiful visual representation of transformation and recognition. But let's consider the deeper symbolism. What does a garden signify? Editor: Growth? New beginnings, maybe? I see the chalice too; it looks very precious compared to the earthly setting. Curator: Precisely. Gardens are traditionally seen as earthly paradises, spaces of renewal, recalling Eden and alluding to a return to a state of grace. Christ’s guise as a gardener suggests that he is nurturing faith and new life. The chalice points to Mary Magdalene’s role and relationship to Jesus. Consider the phrase etched: "Noli me tangere". Why this warning? Editor: Oh! I read that it means, "Touch me not." I guess it speaks to the sacred nature of the resurrected Christ, maybe hinting at his ascension. Curator: Exactly! He's both present and transcendent. The whole image really captures a pivotal moment of doubt and recognition and connects it to potent symbols of spiritual rebirth. See also how he shields the wounds to the torso. He doesn't yet invite observation, not until the ascent to the father. The symbols within the image speak across time. Editor: I hadn't thought of it that way! The visual layering of earthly labor, resurrection, and divinity makes this a very rich piece. I now notice continuity between Eden, the present scene, and even paradise beyond this world. Thanks for pointing out those details!