Pieta

Alan Lydiat Durst 1883 - 1970

Summary

This carving deals with the subject of Pieta (Lamentation) as a narrative, in depicting the scene immediately proceeding the 'Descent from the Cross' in which the body of Christ is laid out on the ground and surrounded by mourners. The Virgin Mary kneels at the head of Christ and cradles Him in her lap; his head hangs limply over her arm; she holds his left hand upon his knee and this is kissed by Mary Magdalene who kneels at His feet and holds them in her arm. In the right side of His torso is the spear wound in His ribs. The piece is finished with a smooth surface and carved in simplified forms.