Church of Nouans-les-Fontaines

The church houses a priceless treasure, a painting unique in France: "The Pietà." This religious masterpiece by Jean Fouquet, who is also likely responsible for the portrait of Charles VII displayed at the Louvre, was bequeathed by the Archbishop of Tours to "The Lady of Nouans-les-Fontaines," wife of Guy de La Rochefoucauld.

It was created around 1460-1465 on wood (walnut). It is a large altarpiece: it depicts a donor in prayer, a cleric whose identity is unknown. He is introduced into the Passion scene by Saint James (identified by his pilgrim's staff and rustic attire). After being taken down from the Cross, Christ is placed by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus on the Virgin's lap. In the foreground are the instruments of the Passion.

A stage of artistic emotion on the Route des Dames.