Artwork preview

The Pietà

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image shows two figures in a traditional Christian iconographic style. One figure is lying on the lap of the other, who is seated. The lying figure has a solemn expression, a beard, and wears a crown of thorns. The seated figure has clasped hands over their chest, a serene expression, and possibly a halo or hood. Both figures are fully clothed. The background includes a large cross with an inscription at the top, set in a simple landscape with green coloration. The image is framed with a simple red border.

Artwork Details

Date
1485/1490
Medium
woodcut in brown, hand-colored in yellow ochre, green, rose, and gold
Dimensions
2907 × 3712 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette