In this painting by Georges de la Tour, the state of mind and heart of the Biblical figure Mary Magdalene is emphasized over the context of time and place. This is a departure from typical depictions of Magdalene, which show her as not only an aged woman, but also her emotions vis-à-vis Jesus's important experiences. The light—arguably the focal point of the painting—draws the viewer into contemplation, and the expression on Magdalene's face, the placement of her head into her hand, and the radiating glow from the candle also encourages the consideration of measured thought.