The Mourning Virgin with St. John and the Pious Women from Galilee 1485

The Mourning Virgin with St. John and the Pious Women from Galilee, painted in 1485 by Early Netherlandish painter Hans Memling, depicts a somber scene of grief. The Virgin Mary is at the center, her hands clasped in prayer, while St. John the Evangelist leans against her, both deeply sorrowful. Three other women, presumably from Galilee, express their grief through gestures and facial expressions. Memling, known for his meticulous detail and realistic portrayal of emotions, captures the raw and heart-wrenching pain of mourning in this poignant work. The small size and intimate composition add to the emotional impact, inviting the viewer to share in the sorrowful experience.