The Holy Family and Mary Magdalene

Mantegna's Holy Family and Mary Magdalene from around 1495 in the J. Paul Getty Museum belongs to his late Mantuan period and reflects the devotional tendencies of the period following the Italian Wars — Charles VIII's invasion of Italy in 1494 created massive disruption but also brought new artistic contacts between Italian and Northern European traditions. The Magdalene's presence beside the holy family reflects her role as the repentant sinner who exemplified Christ's redemptive message. Mantegna renders her with the sculptural precision he brought to all his figures, her anguished expression contrasting with the serene Madonna.

Mantegna's late devotional style features a warmer palette than his early work, with the figures closely grouped in an intimate arrangement while maintaining his characteristic precise drawing and classical composure.