If the eyes are indeed the window to the soul, there appears no clearer visual than seen through the eyes of the Virgin Mary in Michelangelo’s Pieta. Michelangelo, in his brilliance, creates a central point that exudes two distinct natures simultaneously. Mary’s eyes bear the natural grief of a mourning mother, yet emit a surprising calmness that typically accompanies finality. Perhaps the duality of emotions stems from the conflict between the human flesh and divine foreknowledge. Mary knows the destiny that her son has fulfilled as savior of the world. The completion of Jesus’ duty serves as both a moment of pride and sorrow for Mary. It is through her eyes that two realms can be seen as opposites in perfect harmony.

--Cloyd Garth, Jr.