Pieta marble

Michelangelo's Pietà, carved in marble at the end of the 15th century, is one of the most iconic works of the Italian Renaissance, renowned for its technique and expressiveness.

About this subject

The Pietà, located in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Jesus Christ after the crucifixion. Carved between 1498 and 1499, when Michelangelo was only 24 years old, the work was commissioned by Cardinal Jean de Bilhères for his tomb. The choice of marble from the Carrara quarries in Tuscany was crucial to achieving the piece's detail and softness.

The sculpture impresses with its precise anatomy and realistic rendering of fabric folds and facial expressions. Notably, Mary appears youthful, which Michelangelo justified as a symbol of eternal purity. The work is the only one signed by the artist, with his name engraved on the sash across Mary's chest.

The Pietà was attacked in 1972 when a Hungarian geologist struck it with a hammer, damaging parts. After meticulous restoration, the piece was protected by bulletproof glass. To this day, it is a major attraction at the Vatican, drawing millions of pilgrims and tourists.

Technically, the sculpture innovates by representing two figures of complex proportions in a single block of marble, maintaining balance and harmony. The treatment of the garments, with deep contrasts of light and shadow, and the serenity of Mary's face give the work a timeless quality that influenced generations of artists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Michelangelo's Pietà located?

The Pietà is in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, behind bulletproof glass for protection.

Why did Michelangelo sign the Pietà?

He carved his name on Mary's sash after hearing that the work was attributed to another sculptor, making it his only signed piece.

What is the height of the sculpture?

The Pietà measures approximately 1.74 meters in height, carved from a single block of marble.