2-982-214 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

"Mary Magdalene at the Sepulchre" - painted by H. Le Jeune - in the possession of the Duke of Manchester, 1858. 'This picture - one of the few on scriptural or historical subjects which in these degenerate days reach us - was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1856. It represents the incident of the visit of Mary Magdalene and certain of the disciples to the tomb of the Saviour at early dawn on the first day of the week, when they are astonished to find it empty....The particular moment of the action is obviously that where Mary is replying to the inquiry of the angels, and before turning round where Jesus is already standing, watching, and listening to her. The composition has all the solemnity and impressiveness befitting the occasion. The colouring is tender and well toned; the handling delicate. The effect of early dawn, which with upward rays illumines the side of the tomb, the upper part of the figure of the Magdalene, and portion of the face of the Saviour, is admirably conceived and as satisfactorily executed. This highly creditable and interesting work, we are happy to say, found a purchaser in the Duke of Manchester, whoso collection it now adorns'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.