Noli me tangere, sometimes referred to as Christ and Mary Magdalene is High Renaissance master Titian’s early work from 1512 at age 22, depicting the moment after Christ’s resurrection when his follower Mary Magdalene attempts to greet him. Christ, about to begin his journey to heaven says: ‘touch me not’ (noli me tangere).
This speech is signified by Titian with Christ’s withholding of his robe from the adoring Mary. The tree prominent in the background mirrors the Magdalene’s posture while its imposing height to the top of the picture frame signals Christ’s imminent ascension to heaven.
Titian’s Noli me tangere (Christ and Mary Magdalene) is in the National Gallery of London.