Pieta, as an allegorical sculptural theme, examines the human experience of Empathy; the sympathetic understanding of one for another, as uniquely felt by the participant to Christ’s crucifixion.  This typically centers on the Virgin Mary, but may focus on others who were swept up in Christ’s passion.

In addition to Michelangelo’s maquettes, the master returned again and again to the Pieta theme with as many as four other unfinished examples.  The St Peters Pieta was his most traditional portrayal.  However, as Michelangelo aged, his own spirituality deepened and with his Pieta Bandini he had inserted himself within the passion narrative.

What impresses me most of his work is how he captures Life and Death with passion and tenderness.  Crucifixion, the most painful and humiliating death, is viewed through a compassionate lens of Faith, Hope, Charity and Love.

Pieta Amare will be a closer look at the Allegory behind the Pieta. The purpose of Passion and Redemption… the central values found within Love.

As with my Pieta Spero, sketches and maquetts are the best way to begin.