Pieta 1876

"Pieta," painted in 1876 by French Academic artist William Bouguereau, depicts the poignant moment of the Virgin Mary mourning over the body of her son, Jesus Christ, after his crucifixion. Surrounded by weeping angels, the scene is infused with sorrow and devotion, highlighting the central figures' grief with meticulous detail. The painting's idealized realism and meticulous rendering are characteristic of Bouguereau's style, which was highly popular during his lifetime. It exemplifies the Neoclassical revival prevalent in the 19th century, drawing on traditional religious themes and emphasizing beauty and technical mastery.