description Pieta by Michelangelo Overview
The Pietà is a Renaissance marble sculpture by Michelangelo located in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Completed around 1499 when the artist was in his early twenties, it was commissioned by the French cardinal Jean de Bilhères. The sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Jesus Christ following the Crucifixion.
It is the only artwork Michelangelo ever signed, with his name carved into the sash across Mary's chest, and it is highly regarded for its detailed drapery and balanced composition.
help Pieta by Michelangelo FAQ
Where is Michelangelo's original Pietà located?
The original Renaissance marble sculpture is located in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. It is housed in the first chapel on the right as you enter the nave. It is the only artwork that Michelangelo ever signed, which he did across Mary's sash.
How old was Michelangelo when he carved the Pietà?
Michelangelo completed the Pietà around 1499, when he was in his early twenties. The French cardinal Jean de Bilhères commissioned the masterpiece for his own funeral monument. The skill and emotion displayed in the carving cemented Michelangelo's reputation almost overnight.
Why was Michelangelo's Pietà attacked in 1972?
On May 21, 1972, a mentally disturbed geologist named Laszlo Toth attacked the sculpture with a geologist's hammer, chipping off Mary's nose, arm, and eyelid. The shattered pieces were gathered by onlookers, and the statue underwent a meticulous restoration process. It is now protected by a bulletproof acrylic glass panel.
Why does Mary look so young in Michelangelo's Pietà?
Michelangelo intentionally carved Mary as a remarkably young woman to emphasize her lifelong, uncorrupted purity. The artist defended this choice by stating that chastity and virtuous women retain their youthful appearance much longer. The immense, sweeping folds of Mary's garments also serve to visually support the heavy weight of Christ's body.
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