Pietà, Master of Rimini (follower of), c. 1450
alabaster (mineral), h 48cm × w 41cm × d 14cm × w kg More details
Alabaster is a soft rock and therefore highly suitable for refined carved statuary. When polished it acquires a beautiful sheen. This statue was probably once smoothly finished. Moreover, the hem of Mary’s cloak was decorated with gilt. The tiny hole visible just under her chin may have once held a (semi-)precious stone as a clasp for her cloak.
