Mary Magdalen from the Mourning over the dead Christ

myminifactory

Niccoló dell'Arca was first mentioned in Bologna as Maestro Nicolò da Puglia in September 1462. He was described as a master of terracotta figures. This is likely referring to the "Compianto sul Cristo morto", a terracotta group in the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita in Bologna. The same group is mentioned in a Bull issued by Pope Paul II in 1464. A life-size group of six figures stands in a semicircle around the dead Christ in a lying posture, lamenting his death. Their dramatic facial expressions and gestures intensify their grief and torment. However, the exact date of this innovative contribution to Renaissance sculpture is uncertain. Some historians believe it was created between 1485 and 1490 instead of around 1460. Although these figures were originally painted, they are now mostly in an unpainted terra cotta state. The powerfully expressive quality of the group remains, reminiscent of Northern Gothic art. The figures represent those who were present at Christ's entombment, although their actions do not entirely match the biblical account. In this group, Mary Magdalen is one of the main characters. Her dramatic grief is heightened by the artist's use of exaggerated gestures and facial expressions. Her flying robe and head scarf also contribute to her horror and sorrow. Despite her heavy-looking clothing, Mary Magdalen still exudes a sense of sexual power and appeal. Niccoló dell'Arca's use of classical Greek sculptors as an influence is evident in his treatment of drapery. The robes of the grieving women are dramatically depicted as flying out behind them. The size and realism of the figures, combined with their distressed states, would have made this installation a heart-stopping sight for worshippers in the church. The use of terracotta allowed the artist to create more expressive works than he could have using marble or bronze. This sculpture may have influenced another work - Lamentation (1492-94) by Guido Mazzoni at the Church of Monteoliveto, Naples.