The Pietà is a marble sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. It is considered one of the greatest works of Renaissance sculpture.

The sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of her son, Jesus Christ, after he has been crucified. Mary is depicted as a young and beautiful woman, while Jesus is depicted as a fully grown man. The two figures are shown in a tender embrace, and Mary's face is filled with grief.

The Pietà was commissioned by the French cardinal Jean de Bilhères de Lagraulas in 1498. Michelangelo was only 23 years old at the time, and it was his first major commission. He worked on the sculpture for two years, and it was completed in 1499.

The Pietà is a highly realistic sculpture, and Michelangelo's attention to detail is remarkable. The folds of Mary's clothing are rendered with great precision, and the veins in Jesus's hands and feet are clearly visible. The sculpture is also notable for its emotional power. The grief of Mary is palpable, and the viewer cannot help but feel compassion for her.

The Pietà has been attacked twice in its history. In 1972, a mentally ill man attacked the sculpture with a hammer, causing significant damage. The sculpture was restored, and it is now protected by bulletproof glass.

The Pietà is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vatican City. It is a moving and powerful work of art that continues to inspire viewers today.

Here are some other things to know about the Pietà:

It is the only work of art that Michelangelo signed.

The sculpture is about 1.74 meters (5.7 feet) tall and 1.95 meters (6.4 feet) wide.

It is made of Carrara marble.

The Pietà has been praised for its realism, emotion, and technical perfection.

It is considered one of the greatest works of Renaissance sculpture.