Renaissance - Michelangelo - The Pieta Flashcards
What does Pieta mean?
Pity in Italian.
What was special about the Pieta?
Only piece of work Michelangelo ever signed
What are the themes of this sculpture?
Religion
Mary holding her son, station of the cross
What is the composition?
Triangular Heavy drapery adds support On tree stump Mary’s head apex of triangle Negative space at her left hand Sitting position Jesus lying on her lap
Who commissioned the sculpture?
French cardinal based in Rome, Jean de billheres
When was it made?
1497 - 1500
Where is it located?
St. Peter’s basilica in Rome
What is it made of?
White marble
How big is it?
175m x 195m
What technique did he use to make it?
Sketch drawn then carved out
What does the left finger pointing up indicate?
Mary’s confusion, looking up to heaven to ask why
What age was Jesus?
33
What age was Mary?
She was much older at the time that is being portrayed but Michelangelo made her look youthful almost the same age as Jesus
How did he treat the human figure?
Restrained grief
Jesus lying lifeless, limp, no tension in muscles
Drapery moves in linear movements with Christ’s body
Mary’s frame is too small
Mary is looking down at him
Piece of drapery between her hand and Jesus - adds support
Head Tilsitern backwards
Right arm hanging down
Right foot on ground
Left foot dangling
Why is Mary portrayed so youthful?
Emphasizes her innocence
