Artwork Page for Pietà

Details / Information for Pietà

Pietà

late 1500s

possibly Italy, Florence, late 16th century, or later

Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
Unframed: 117 x 89 cm (46 1/16 x 35 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Philip R. McCurdy and Lucia McCurdy McBride 1915.407
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

Originating in Germany in the 1300s, the intense moment of lamentation, often referred to as a pietà, has no origin in the Bible. Though it was more widespread in northern Europe, the poignant scene of Mary holding the body of her deceased son expanded into Italy as well. In this painting, Nicodemus supports Christ's upper body, Mary clasps her son's elbow as he lies across her lap, Mary Magdalene kneels at Christ's feet, and John the Apostle covers his face in grief behind her. The crown of thorns upon Christ's head and the blood still visible from his wounds recall the events of the Passion and highlight the sorrow of the Virgin.
A vertically oriented oil painting depicts the Virgin Mary and four figures with light skin tones mourning the dead Christ. Christ reclines across Mary's lap, wearing a crown of thorns and a dark loincloth with blood on his side. An older man in a turban stands at our left. To our right, one figure in a red robe covers their eyes while another in a gold dress holds a small jar against a dark background.

Pietà

late 1500s

possibly Italy, Florence, late 16th century, or later

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