Pietà

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Ivan Mestrovic made a deliberate decision in selecting an alternative representation of the recurring subject of the Pietà – the instant after the crucifixion, where Mary cradles her son. This theme emerged at the end of the Middle Ages and evolved through the centuries. By the 16th century, Christ was predominantly depicted lying at his mother's feet as she supported his upper body. In contrast, Ivan Mestrovic chose an earlier iconography, reminiscent of the 14th century, where Jesus sat on his mother's lap. The most striking feature of this sculpture is its emotional impact: likely inspired by the strong Expressionist movement between World War I and II, Mestrovic crafted raw, unrefined bodies, particularly the facial features that convey profound sorrow. The tenderness with which Mary holds her son's head and kisses his cheek also evokes the Madonna and Child theme, further accentuating the emotional intensity.