Boetende Magdalena 1765

Jurriaan Andriessen created this drawing, "Boetende Magdalena," using pen, brush, and gray ink, heightened with white, in the Netherlands during the 18th century. Andriessen presents us with a scene of repentance, viewed through the lens of his time. Note the theatrical quality, a common feature in art meant to evoke strong emotions and moral contemplation. Here, we see visual codes reflecting the religious and social values of the period. The image, of Mary Magdalene, a reformed sinner, invites reflection on morality, redemption, and the role of women in Dutch society. To fully understand this work, we can look into the religious environment of the Netherlands, particularly how the concept of sin and redemption was viewed and taught, and how institutions such as the church influenced social norms. Studying the history of art academies and the patronage system will also provide insight into the conditions under which Andriessen worked, and how these might have shaped his approach to such subjects.