Alabaster Pietà After Michelangelo – 19th Century

A beautiful religious sculpture in alabaster depicting the Pietà, based on Michelangelo’s famous masterpiece, created in the late 15th century and housed in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, at the Vatican.

This 19th-century work depicts the Virgin Mary seated, cradling the lifeless body of Christ on her lap after his descent from the Cross.

The composition draws on Michelangelo’s iconic imagery, characterized by the Virgin’s serene yet pained demeanor, which contrasts with the lifelessness of Christ’s body.

The sculpture displays exquisite carving, particularly evident in the folds of the drapery, the rendering of the faces, and the anatomy of Christ. The piece rests on an oval base, carved from the same material.

The alabaster, with its slightly translucent cream-white hues, features a beautiful antique patina and natural color variations, emphasizing the decorative and spiritual character of this work.