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Michelangelo Buonarroti
Pietà
ca 1498-1500 Marble 5’8.5”. Saint Peters Vatican City, Rome

The Pietà Theme utilizes an emotional interaction with the observer and became popular during the beginning of the fourteenth century. It is curious because there is no biblical doctrine which accounts for Mary holding her dead son after his crucifixion and death. This apocryphal account demonstrates a shift in religious culture where the church starts to humanize Christ. This sculpture defines Michaelangelo as one of the most amazing masters ever. The youthfulness of mary and the dynamic drapery creating a stunningly beautiful scene.