CLASSICAL BEAUTY

The Pietà by Michelangelo

The Pietà by Michelangelo (1498–1499) is housed in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. The statue was commissioned for the French cardinal Jean de Billheres, who was a representative in Rome. The sculpture, in Carrara marble, was made for the cardinal's funeral monument, but was moved to its current location, the first chapel on the right as one enters the basilica, in the 18th century.

Pietà detail: It is the only piece Michelangelo ever signed. This famous work of art depicts the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother Mary after the Crucifixion. Michelangelo's interpretation of the Pietà is unique to that time. It is an important work as it balances the Renaissance ideals of classical beauty with naturalism. The statue is one of the most highly finished works by Michelangelo... Art is the Soul's Food

Pietà detail
"... But as beautiful and deep a rendition of Hebrew history Michelangelo created I am too deeply embedded in truth; historical truth, and it is impossible to get over the fact she looks nothing like an African woman from any part of the continent who would be able to hide in Egypt when her son was born!" - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 
9.10.12