1. a representation of the Virgin Mary mourning over the dead body of Christ, especially as a subject in art.
Usage: often capitalized when referring to a specific famous artwork; from Italian, meaning 'pity' or 'compassion'

Examples

• Michelangelo's Pieta is one of the most famous sculptures in the world.
• The museum displayed a Renaissance pieta painted in oils on canvas.
• The artist chose the pieta as the central image for the cathedral's altarpiece.
• Many pietas from the medieval period show Mary cradling her son's body.
• The pieta has been a popular subject in Christian art for centuries.