Michelangelo

Michelangelo, an Italian sculptor, painter, and architect of the High Renaissance, was born on March 6, 1475.

In 1481, Michelangelo's mother passed away.

In 1487, Michelangelo was in Florence, where he began his artistic journey. Florence played a significant role in shaping his career as a painter, sculptor, architect, and poet.

In 1488, Lorenzo de' Medici acknowledges Michelangelo's exceptional talent, paving the way for the renowned artist's illustrious career.

In 1489, Michelangelo leaves Ghirlandaio’s workshop to study sculpture in the gardens of Lorenzo de’ Medici. He resides at the ducal palace for three years, interacting with Humanists and creating his first marble reliefs, including THE MADONNA OF THE STAIRS and the BATTLE OF THE CENTAURS.

Michelangelo's father convinced the painter to pay his son for the apprenticeship, a rare occurrence during that time.

Lorenzo de' Medici's death in April 1492 led to a change in Michelangelo's circumstances, prompting him to leave the security of the Medici court and return to his father's house.

On August 27, 1498, Michelangelo secures his first major commission from cardinal Jean Bilheres de Lagrualas to sculpt a 'Pietà', a renowned sculpture depicting Mary cradling the deceased Jesus. The masterpiece was initially placed in the cardinal's tomb church.

In 1499, Michelangelo carved the Pieta out of marble, marking the beginning of his successful career. This sculpture was a significant milestone in his artistic journey.

In 1501, the French ambassador at the Holy See commissioned Michelangelo to create one of his most famous works, the Pieta.

In 1504, Michelangelo returned to Florence and was contracted to carve figures for the Piccolomini altar. He also received the prestigious commission to sculpt the famous David statue.

Michelangelo returns to Florence and accepts the challenge to create a large statue of 'David' for the Cathedral of Florence. He finishes the 14 feet tall giant figure in about two and a half years, becoming the greatest living artist of his time.

Pope Julius II interrupts the tomb project and asks Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo completes the 65-foot ceiling alone, revealing the finished work on October 31, 1512.

In October 1512, Michelangelo completed the painting of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome.

In 1514, Michelangelo begins working on the RISEN CHRIST sculpture for the church of Sta. Maria sopra Minerva in Rome. The sculpture is completed by his assistant and unveiled in 1521.

While working on the tomb for Pope Julius II, Michelangelo also took on the task of painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling. The project took approximately four years to complete and features over 300 figures, including nine parts from the Book of Genesis in the Bible.

In 1516, Michelangelo signs a contract for the Julius tomb and is commissioned by the Medici to design the facade of their family church, San Lorenzo. His design includes 10 statues, showcasing his artistic prowess.

Michelangelo starts working in the Medici Chapel and Biblioteca Laurenziana and continues his work until 1523. He also spends part-time on the Julius tomb project.

In 1524, Michelangelo received a commission from Pope Clement VII for the construction of the Laurentian Library next to San Lorenzo's Church.

In 1527, Michelangelo paused his works at the Medici Chapel to defend Florence against an anticipated attack by a papal and imperial army. This event showcased Michelangelo's dedication beyond painting, highlighting his commitment to protecting his city.

During the siege of Florence by a papal and imperial army in 1528, Michelangelo is appointed as Chief of Fortifications to defend the city. Despite being considered a traitor by the victorious forces later, he goes into hiding. The Pope offers him immunity in exchange for continuing work on the Medici Chapel figures, completing two of them by 1531.

In 1529, Michelangelo is declared a traitor in Florence and flees the city. He later returns just before Florence is captured by imperial forces in 1530, going into hiding.

In 1530, the Pope promises Michelangelo immunity if he continues working on the Medici Chapel figures. Michelangelo finishes two of the figures, NIGHT and DAWN, by 1531.

In 1532, Michelangelo relocates to Rome and signs a new contract with Julius' heirs for a smaller tomb featuring only six figures. However, he faces accusations of dishonesty regarding the money received from Pope Julius for the tomb, leading to a lack of trust from the heirs and causing distress for Michelangelo.

In 1533, Pope Clement asks Michelangelo to paint the Last Judgment on the wall of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo briefly returns to Florence before leaving for the rest of his life, allowing assistants to complete the Medici Chapel and the Laurentian Library.

Pope Clement VII commissioned Michelangelo to paint a fresco in the Sistine Chapel in 1534. The frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel are among the most famous works of Michelangelo.

Michelangelo designed the Laurentian Library, which became a pioneering example of Mannerist architecture. His innovative architectural concepts left a lasting impact on the field of architecture.

Michelangelo completed the fresco of The Last Judgment on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel. The artwork depicts the Second Coming of Christ and his Judgement of the souls, deviating from traditional artistic conventions.

In 1543, Michelangelo starts working on the Conversion of St. Paul fresco in the Pauline Chapel.

The Tomb of Julius II was completed and installed in San Pietro in Vincoli, Rome.

At the age of 71, Michelangelo became the architect of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. He made significant contributions to the completion of the basilica's design, including the dome.

Michelangelo took on the task of completing St. Peter's Basilica, simplifying and strengthening the design to create a more dynamic and unified whole.

In 1550, Michelangelo was appointed as the chief architect at St Peter's Basilica and the Farnese Palace. This marked a significant moment in his career as an artist and architect.

In 1553, Giorgio Vasari's influential book 'Lives of the Painters, Sculptors and Architects' was published, featuring Michelangelo. This publication played a crucial role in shaping the Renaissance art history.

By 1561, with the help of an assistant, he successfully completes a model of the dome for St. Peter's Basilica, showcasing his architectural prowess.

Michelangelo spends the day working on the RONDANINI PIETÀ while being watched by his friend Daniele da Volterra.

Michelangelo passed away at his home in Macel de'Corvi, Rome on February 18, 1564.

Michelangelo, one of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance, left a lasting impact on the art world with his masterpieces such as the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the statue of David.

On November 25, 2021, Michelangelo fell off the scaffolding while working on the Sistine Chapel. This incident is a well-known event in art history.

A battle to safeguard the honor of Michelangelo's David sparks discussions on freedom of expression. The controversy surrounding the protection of this iconic sculpture is highlighted.

A huge drawing, potentially created by Michelangelo, is up for sale. The authenticity of the artwork raises intrigue and interest.