Michelangelo's Pietà

The Pietà (1498?99) by Michelangelo is a marble sculpture in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the first of at least two works of the same subject by the artist. The statue was commissioned by the French cardinal Jean de Billheres, who was a representative in Rome. The statue 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.

Related Topics:
Pietà - 1498 - 99 - Michelangelo - Marble sculpture - St. Peter's Basilica - Rome - French - Cardinal - Jean de Billheres - 18th century

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This famous work of art depicts the body of Jesus in the arms of His mother Mary after the Crucifixion. The model is the nordic one, which Michelangelo assimilates and elaborates in a personal way. It takes to the extreme the Renaissance ideal of classical harmony, beauty and restraint. The statue is highly finished compared to other works by Michelangelo.

Related Topics:
Jesus - Mary - Crucifixion - Model - Renaissance

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