Michelangelo’s Pietà
When one walks into the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica overtakes the viewer’s eye. While the exterior site of its grandiosity and extraordinary architectural design are incomparable, the interior of St. Peter’s is similarly, if not more, incredible. The various paintings, sculptures, and structures that adorn St. Peter’s depict the sacred values of the Catholic Church, ultimately capturing the true essence of the Vatican. One sculpture in particular that has the power to grab a hold of a person’s entire being, reaching one’s mind, body, and soul, is Michelangelo’s Pietà, located behind bullet-proof glass in the first chapel to the right upon entering the basilica. Constructed in the late 1490s, this stunning white marble statue is of the Blessed Mother holding the limb body of Jesus, her Son, on her lap after He has been taken down from the cross, in which she presents Him to us with her left hand. Originally created for Old St. Peter’s as an altarpiece, this sculpture provides opportunity for worship and reflection of the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice. Having previously viewed this sculpture in history books, I was immediately taken aback when I first saw Michelangelo’s Pietà in person. The delicacy in which Michelangelo portrays Mary and her Son exemplify such great love and beauty that viewers of all religious background will be experience something beyond themselves. While I view this masterpiece as one of humble perfection, I believe Michelangelo also felt he had created something tremendous, seeing as his Pietà is the only work of art that he ever signed.
Renée Cloutier, Survey of Art and Architecture, St. John’s University
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