Michelangelo Buonarroti
Today, we celebrate 550 years since the birth of one of the greatest artists of all time-Michelangelo Buonarroti.
His extraordinary talent and relentless dedication to art shaped the Renaissance and left an everlasting impact on the world.
From breathtaking sculptures to monumental frescoes, Michelangelo’s work continues to inspire generations.
But who was the man behind these masterpieces? Let’s explore the most important moments of his life and career.
A Humble Beginning (1475-1488)
Born on March 6, 1475, in Caprese, Italy, Michelangelo was raised in Florence, the heart of the Renaissance.
From a young age, he displayed an incredible artistic ability. Against his father’s wishes, he pursued an artistic career and apprenticed under the famous painter Domenico Ghirlandaio. However, Michelangelo’s true passion lay in sculpture.
The Last Judgment, detail of the Redeemed.
Training Under the Medici Family (1488-1496)
His talent soon caught the attention of Lorenzo de’ Medici, one of Florence’s most powerful patrons. Under Medici’s guidance, Michelangelo was exposed to classical sculptures and surrounded by the era’s greatest thinkers. This period profoundly influenced his artistic vision, blending human emotion with divine beauty.
Pietà, St Peter’s Basilica (1498–1499)
Breakthrough: The Pietà (1498-1501)
At just 23 years old, Michelangelo completed the Pietà, a masterpiece that remains one of the most exquisite sculptures in history.
Commissioned for St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Christ with an astonishing level of detail and emotion. The Pietà cemented Michelangelo’s reputation as a master sculptor.
David, completed by Michelangelo in 1504, is one of the most renowned works of the Renaissance.
David, completed by Michelangelo in 1504, is one of the most renowned works of the Renaissance. Jörg Bittner Unna • CC BY-SA 3.0
The Iconic David (1501-1504)
Shortly after, Michelangelo returned to Florence, where he sculpted David, a colossal 17-foot marble statue that became a symbol of strength and human potential. Unlike previous depictions of the biblical hero, Michelangelo’s David radiates confidence and intelligence, reflecting the ideals of the Renaissance.
Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel; the work took approximately four years to complete (1508–1512). Dennis G. Jarvis • CC BY-SA 2.0
The Sistine Chapel Ceiling (1508-1512)
In 1508, Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel-a task he initially resisted, as he considered himself a sculptor rather than a painter. Nevertheless, he accepted the challenge and created one of the greatest artistic achievements of all time.
Over four years, he painted over 300 figures, including the iconic Creation of Adam, where God’s hand reaches out to give life to man.
“The Last Judgment” (1536–1541) Fresco by Michelangelo.
The Last Judgment (1536-1541)
Decades later, Pope Clement VII commissioned Michelangelo to paint The Last Judgment on the Sistine Chapel’s altar wall. This dramatic and intense fresco depicts the final judgment of souls, showcasing Michelangelo’s evolving artistic style-darker, more dynamic, and deeply spiritual.
The dome of St Peter’s Basilica Myrabella • CC BY-SA 3.0
Architect of St. Peter’s Basilica (1546-1564)
In his later years, Michelangelo focused on architecture. He was appointed the chief architect of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, designing its magnificent dome-a masterpiece that remains one of the most iconic structures in the world.
The Doni Tondo (1504–1506) by Michelangelo.
A Lasting Legacy
Michelangelo passed away on February 18, 1564, at the age of 88, leaving behind an unparalleled artistic legacy.
His works defined the High Renaissance, blending human beauty with divine grandeur.
His influence can be seen in countless artists who followed, from Baroque masters to modern creatives.
Five centuries later, his masterpieces continue to captivate the world. Whether through the chiseled perfection of David, the breathtaking grandeur of the Sistine Chapel, or the architectural marvel of St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo remains an eternal symbol of artistic genius.
Discover Michelangelo’s Masterpieces
Want to experience Michelangelo’s brilliance firsthand? Explore his works and uncover the stories behind them.
His legacy isn’t just in museums-it lives on in every artist and visionary who dares to create.
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Viviana Puello
Editor-in-Chief
