Era Mio Figlio

Era Mio Figlio (1978 Madonna and Child)

Background

Era Mio Figlio or "He Was My Son" is a marble sculpture by Italian artist Giacomo Manzù. It was created in 1978. The sculpture depicts Mary mourning over the body of Jesus after he was taken down from the cross. The work is located in the chapel of the Duomo of Brescia, Italy.

Description

"Era Mio Figlio" is a life-size sculpture carved from a single block of Carrara marble. Mary is depicted seated on a bench, with the body of Jesus lying across her lap. Her head is bowed in grief and her expression is one of anguish. Jesus' body is covered in wounds and his eyes are closed.

The sculpture is a powerful and moving depiction of Mary's sorrow. It is a reminder of the suffering that she endured as she watched her son die. The work is also a symbol of the hope and redemption that is found in Christ's resurrection.

Manzù's Style

Giacomo Manzù was a renowned Italian artist who is known for his sculptures, paintings, and drawings. He was born in Bergamo, Italy in 1908. Manzù studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan. After graduating, he traveled to Paris, where he was influenced by the work of Aristide Maillol and Pablo Picasso.

Manzù's work is characterized by its simplicity, realism, and humanism. He often depicted religious subjects, but he also created many secular works. Manzù's sculptures are often made of bronze or marble. He was also a skilled draftsman and printmaker.

Manzù died in Rome in 1991. He is considered one of the most important Italian artists of the 20th century.

Themes

"Era Mio Figlio" is a work of art that explores the themes of grief, hope, and redemption. It is a reminder of the suffering that Mary endured as she watched her son die. The work is also a symbol of the hope and redemption that is found in Christ's resurrection.

Context

"Era Mio Figlio" was created in 1978, a time of great turmoil in the world. The Vietnam War had just ended and the Cold War was at its height. The sculpture was a reminder of the suffering and loss that war brings. It was also a message of hope and redemption during a time of great uncertainty.

Reception

"Era Mio Figlio" has been praised for its beauty, realism, and emotional power. It is considered one of Manzù's masterpieces. The work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. It is now a permanent part of the collection of the Duomo of Brescia, Italy.