"Christ Appearing to Mary Magdalene as a Gardener (Noli me tangere)" is a significant drawing created by the master Rembrandt van Rijn in 1645. This work, originating from the Netherlands during the flourishing period of the Dutch Golden Age, captures the profound moment immediately following Christ’s resurrection when Mary Magdalene first encounters him and mistakes him for a gardener.
Executed on paper primarily using deck paint and ink, this piece reflects Rijn’s highly skilled draftsmanship. The composition relies on light and shadow to heighten the drama of the encounter, illustrating the artist’s continued mastery of expression and gesture even in monochromatic media. The designation "Noli me tangere" (Latin for "Touch me not") refers to Christ’s subsequent command to Mary, subtly implied by the distance maintained between the figures. Christ stands cloaked, bearing a spade or shovel that signifies his temporary disguise, while Mary Magdalene kneels in recognition and awe.
The subject matter aligns with the profound biblical themes frequently explored by Rijn during this period. The drawing is a prime example of the narrative intensity he brought to his preliminary studies and finished works on paper. This historical drawing is preserved within the esteemed collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where it serves as a testament to the artist's enduring influence. Due to the artwork’s age and cultural importance, high-quality digital files and prints of this Rijn masterwork are often made available through institutions utilizing public domain access policies.
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