Pietà
Free-standing sculpture in the round • Michelangelo Buonarroti
Style & Movement
High Renaissance
Medium & Technique
Carrara marble; subtractive carving and high-gloss polishing with fine abrasives
Creation Period
1498–1499
Dimensions & Format
174 cm × 195 cm (68.5 in × 76.8 in); pyramidal format
Subject Description
A pyramidal composition depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the body of her son, Jesus Christ, after his crucifixion. The work is notable for Mary's youthful appearance and the delicate rendering of flesh and drapery.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Restored; the work underwent a major restoration following an attack in 1972
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable (National Treasure/Cultural Heritage)
Auction Estimate
Inestimable (Not feasible for public sale)
Provenance History
Commissioned by Cardinal Jean de Bilhères for his funeral monument; currently housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City
Art Historical Significance
One of the most famous works of the Renaissance, it established Michelangelo's reputation as a master at age 24 and is the only work he ever signed.
Notable Features
Includes Michelangelo's signature on the sash running across Mary's chest: 'MICHAELA[N]GELUS BONAROTUS FLORENTIN[US] FACIEBA[T]'
Condition Issues
Significant damage occurred to Mary's arm, nose, and eye in 1972; these areas were meticulously reconstructed and reattached.
Conservation Recommendations
Now kept behind bulletproof glass in a climate-controlled environment with stabilized lighting and security and periodic dusting.