Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene, originally uploaded by kmcgivney.

While we were in Florence, we went to the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, otherwise known as the Duomo. (The word Duomo is a general term for an Italian church, so you will see many references to Duomos all over Italy.) Though it is beautiful and has a wonderful architectural history, much of its artwork and statues have been moved to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Duomo Museum) across the street. In this museum, we found many of the statues that are included in the Creepy Statues set, but this one stood out.

Made of polychromed white poplar wood and completed around 1455, this statue is one of Donatello's most striking pieces. The sculpture was captivating - Mary Magdalene made to look emaciated and nearly toothless, clad in tattered clothing and with ratty long hair, yet still raising her hands in prayer, she is a mix of desperation and hope. I was fascinated by this sculpture and decided that my images should focus on her hands since they appeared to be the strongest part of her.

Taken with a Canon 5D and a Lensbaby.