Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel

Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel

During the Renaissance period, there were many great artistic achievements that were simply incredible. Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, Masaccio's Trinity, and Botticelli's Primavera are just examples of the exquisite works of art from that period. Michelangelo Buonarroti was one of the most famous personalities from that era. He was a true Renaissance man where he was a jack of all trades. He was an accomplished artist, sculptor, architect, and poet who demonstrated his great skill with the creation of many astounding works. He is remembered today as the man who had sculpted the David and the Pieta, which are two of the most stunning sculptures to come out of the Renaissance period. He is probably most remembered for painting the ceiling at the Sistine Chapel in Rome. It has been called by many the most incredible achievement in the Western World and I feel that it was his greatest accomplishment.

The crucifixion of Haman

Jesse spandrel, before restoration

creation of man

It was an endeavor that stretched from the years 1508 to 1512 with many extenuating circumstances that makes it's existence even more awe-inspiring.

Pope Sixtus IV, of the della Rovere family, is known throughout history as a great scholar who spurred humanistic and religious learning during his reign. One of his greatest achievements was the decision to build a new papal Chapel that was as strong as a fortress. It was named the Sistine Chapel and it became the capital of Western Christendom. It was damaged in 1504 when a collapse in its structure caused a large crack to appear in the ceiling. Pope Julius II, Sixtus' nephew, who succeeded him in 1503 had decided that the most important Chapel in Christendom must be renovated and the existing ceiling, a blue one decorated with a galaxy of silver stars, must be replaced. Julius II decided...