Recently acquired by the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., the “Penitent Mary Magdalene” was painted by Artemisia Gentileschi in Rome in 1625 when she was at the height of her artistic powers. Lacking the traditional symbols associated with Mary Magdalene such as the anointing jar, cross, or skull, Artemisia’s interpretation of the subject is one of profound spiritual transformation. The immediacy and intimacy with which Artemisia imbues the dramatic event makes the viewer feel almost as if they were present. Buon visione!