The artwork “Pietà” was created by Eugene Delacroix in 1850. This oil on canvas painting is a significant example of the Romanticism movement and belongs to the genre of religious painting. Currently, the piece is housed in the National Gallery, located in Oslo, Norway.
“Pietà” is a powerful depiction of sorrow and loss, following the traditional Christian theme where the Virgin Mary mourns over the dead body of Christ after his crucifixion. In Delacroix’s interpretation, the figures are rendered with a strong sense of emotion and dramatic lighting. The composition is characterized by sweeping brushstrokes and a rich, deep color palette. Mary is clothed in a dark blue robe with a reddish drapery, and she cradles Christ’s limp body on her lap, his white shroud offering a stark contrast to the surrounding darkness. Her expression is full of grief, and the intimate scale of the figures coupled with the dynamic use of light and shadow enhances the emotional impact of the scene. Delacroix’s handling of paint showcases his mastery in conveying texture and form, with the distinct signature at the bottom right adding a personal touch. The artwork is an evocative representation of this traditional religious subject, reflecting the Romantic emphasis on emotion and individual expression.
