Pietà
Summary
The Pietà is a subject in Christian art depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the mortal body of Jesus Christ after his Descent from the Cross. It is a specific form of the Lamentation of Christ in which Jesus is mourned by the Virgin Mary alone. The term comes from Italian meaning "pity" or "compassion."
Biblical Reference
Book(s): Gospels
Chapters/Verses: Matthew 27:57-61, Mark 15:42-47, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:38-42
Artworks Depicting This Story
Pietà Self-researched
An atmospheric composition echoing Donatello's bronze relief. Part of the museum's significant collection of Bellini family works.
Pietà Self-researched
A significant work demonstrating Tura's monumentality and pathos, bequeathed to the museum as part of Teodoro Correr's original collection in 1830. Measures 47.7 cm by 33.5 cm. Initially attributed to Luca d'Olanda until Vincenzo Lazari recognized it as a Tura work in 1859.
Pietà Self-researched
The only work by Antonello da Messina remaining in Venice from his 1474-76 stay in the city. Originally housed in the Doge's Palace. This work was influential in introducing Flemish oil painting techniques to Venice.
The Deposition (Florentine Pietà) My Study Self-researched
A marble sculpture depicting four figures: the dead body of Jesus Christ newly taken down from the Cross, Nicodemus (said to be Michelangelo's self-portrait), Mary Magdalene, and the Virgin Mary. Originally intended for Michelangelo's own tomb. Now housed in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo but was earlier in the Duomo itself.
