10-09 Michelangelo

My talk today is on one of the greatest artists of the High Renaissance-Michelangelo. A sculptor, painter, architect, and poet who, then and now, is regarded as one of the greatest artist who has ever lived. His Pietà in St. Peter's Basilica was produced when he was just 24 years old and his David came four years later. I also cover his Bacchus, his lost cartoon for The Battle of Cascina, Moses, the Dying Slave and the Rebellious Slave, the Sistine Chapel ceiling, the Risen Christ, Night and Day and Dawn and Dusk in the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Laurentian Library, the Last Judgement in the Sistine Chapel and the Dome of Saint Peter's Basilica.
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Summary
This task reviews the life, work, and artistic journey of Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564), one of the greatest artists of the High Renaissance, drawing information from the provided source: "www.shafe.co.u...".
Main Themes
Artistic Genius and Versatility: Michelangelo's talents extended across various artistic disciplines, making him a true Renaissance man. He was a master sculptor, painter, architect, and poet.
Rivalry and Competition: The Renaissance was a time of intense artistic competition, with Michelangelo's rivalry with Leonardo da Vinci being particularly noteworthy.
Patronage and Politics: Michelangelo's career was heavily influenced by powerful patrons, including the Medici family and various popes, often intertwined with the turbulent political climate of the time.
Technical Skill and Innovation: Michelangelo was renowned for his exceptional technical skills, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and leaving an indelible mark on Western art history.
Key Ideas and Facts
Early Life and Influences
Born into a family believing themselves to be descended from aristocracy, Michelangelo was exposed to the world of art at a young age, apprenticing under Domenico Ghirlandaio at 13.
He attended the Medici academy, further honing his skills and absorbing the intellectual currents of the time.
An incident with fellow pupil Pietro Torrigiano, who broke Michelangelo's nose in a fit of jealousy, left a lasting physical mark on the artist.
Major Works
Pietà (1498-1499): This early masterpiece, depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the dead Christ, established Michelangelo's reputation. According to his biographer Giorgio Vasari, Michelangelo, upon hearing someone attribute the work to another artist, carved his signature on the sash, the only work he ever signed.
David (1501-1504): Commissioned to complete a previously abandoned project, Michelangelo's David is a testament to his skill and vision. Its placement was a matter of debate, with Leonardo da Vinci advocating for covering the figure's genitals, as evidenced by a surviving transcript and sketch by Leonardo.
Sistine Chapel Ceiling (1508-1512): Initially reluctant, Michelangelo undertook this monumental project at the insistence of Pope Julius II. The frescoes, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, are considered one of the most iconic works of art, renowned for their complexity, power, and vibrant colours.
The Last Judgment (1536-1541): Located on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel, this fresco depicting the Second Coming of Christ sparked controversy for its nudity, leading to later censorship.
Tomb of Julius II (1505-1545): This ambitious project, spanning four decades, showcases Michelangelo's mastery of sculpture, with the central figure of Moses considered a highlight. The unfinished nature of the tomb reflects the artist's frequent diversions to other projects.
Personal Life and Legacy
Michelangelo was a complex and often solitary figure, described as "chaste," “rough and uncouth,” and “a solitary and melancholy person.” He lived a frugal life despite his wealth, dedicated to his art.
His poetry provides insights into his personal feelings and thoughts, with a notable sequence of sonnets addressed to Tommaso dei Cavalieri.
Michelangelo's influence on Western art is immeasurable, inspiring generations of artists and continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.
Conclusion
Michelangelo's life and work exemplify the artistic brilliance and innovation of the Renaissance. His extraordinary talents, driven by ambition, passion, and a deep understanding of the human form, produced some of the most iconic and enduring masterpieces in Western art.

[@aeonfluxx6448]

thank you for your amazing lectures!

[@shekharpatel]

Thank you sir! I have been watching your videos for quite some time now, and have learned a lot about art and artists who created it, the how and why etc. Your lectures are lively informative and satisfying. Looking forward to continue my journey understanding great art and artists who created it. Thank you again.

[@FineArtLV]

wow vasari sacrificing his own work to preserve leonardos, chapeau