Pieta

By: Michelangelo, 1499

Describe

Pieta is a sculpture of the Blessed Mother cradling Jesus Christ draped in cloth after his crucifixion. Outstanding carving conveys a remorse like no other on Mary's face.

Analyze

~ Many angled lines coming from the drapery and positions of the two bodies
~ Cream, stone bodies
~ Limp shape of Jesus shows his lifeless body
~ Lifelike texture of draped cloth, ribs, and facial features
~ Still movement; as if a moment in time
~ Equal weight of both sides gives balance
~ Emphasis on Mary because of her size in comparison to Jesus and positioning in sculpture
~ Swaddled clothing unifies piece

Interpret

I believe this sculpture is portraying the intense remorse and sadness of death, especially for Mary, the Mother of God. The serenity of her face hints that she knows of Jesus's future and displays that strength. Michelangelo manages to capture this moment by sculpting the awkward shape of Jesus's body and draping the cloth under Him.

Sorrow