The Universal Man
Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475 – 1564) was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet of the High Renaissance. Born in Caprese, near Arezzo, Tuscany, he is widely considered one of the greatest artists of all time. His vast body of work, characterized by its anatomical precision, emotional intensity, and monumental scale, left an indelible mark on Western art and culture.
Despite his own preferences leaning towards sculpture, Michelangelo's talent as a painter was undeniable, evidenced by his iconic frescoes. His architectural designs were innovative and grand, contributing significantly to the Roman skyline.
Iconic Masterpieces
A Life in Art
1475
Born in Caprese, Tuscany.
1488
Apprenticed to the painter Domenico Ghirlandaio.
1490s
Studied sculpture at the Medici Garden of Sculpture under Lorenzo de' Medici.
1498-1499
Created the Pietà for St. Peter's Basilica.
1501-1504
Sculpted the iconic David.
1508-1512
Painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
1536-1541
Painted The Last Judgment on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel.
Later Years
Focused on architecture, including work on St. Peter's Basilica.
1564
Died in Rome at the age of 88.
Enduring Legacy
Michelangelo's influence on subsequent generations of artists is immeasurable. His works are revered for their technical mastery, profound emotional depth, and ability to capture the sublime. The Sistine Chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment remain unparalleled achievements in fresco painting, while his sculptures continue to inspire awe for their lifelike quality and dramatic presence. His architectural contributions, particularly at St. Peter's Basilica, showcase his innovative approach to design and his understanding of spatial dynamics.
He embodied the Renaissance ideal of the "uomo universale" (universal man), a testament to the breadth and depth of human creative potential.