Artwork
Pietà
Pietà is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Agostino Carracci. It dates from 1582 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in plate: Agu. Car. fe.; lower left toward center: Paolo Calliarj Veronese inve. / Oratio Bertelli for. 1582
About this work
Overview
Pietà is an engraving created by Agostino Carracci in 1582. It exemplifies his work as a printmaker associated with the School of Bologna.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the poignant scene of Mary mourning over the body of Jesus after his crucifixion, conveying a powerful emotional moment through detailed representation.
Technique & Style
Carracci's use of lines and shading in the engraving creates a sense of depth, employing a technique characteristic of the period. The level of detail adds a layer of uniqueness to a commonly depicted scene in art.
Context
The work is linked to the Accademia degli Incamminati, co-founded by Carracci with his brother Annibale and cousin Ludovico. The academy focused on developing technical skill and compositional innovation as a response to prevailing Mannerist trends.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Agostino Carracci ( kə-RAH-chee, UK also kə-RATCH-ee, Italian: ; also Caracci; 16 August 1557 – 22 March 1602) was an Italian painter, printmaker, tapestry designer, and art teacher.
