Michelangelo Buonarroti ( * 1475 † 1564 )

Artist Michelangelo (Buonarroti)

Discover the world-renowned art of Michelangelo – the universal genius of the High Renaissance. His works like "David," the "Pietà," or the paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel impress with an extraordinary blend of perfection, beauty, and grace. Bring a piece of art history into your home – as a high-quality art print, stylishly framed canvas, or hand-painted artwork in your desired size!

Michelangelo was born on March 6, 1475, in Caprese, Tuscany, and grew up in Florence, the cultural heart of the early Renaissance. Even in his youth, his extraordinary artistic talent was evident. At 14, he began training with the painter Domenico Ghirlandaio, yet he soon turned to sculpture, his true medium of expression. Lorenzo de Medici, the most prominent art patron of the time, recognized Michelangelo's exceptional skill and welcomed him into his circle, laying the foundation for his future career.

Between 1496 and 1501, Michelangelo stayed in Rome, where he created one of his earliest and most famous works, the "Pietà." This sculpture, demonstrating exceptional sensitivity and technical mastery, established his reputation as a great sculptor. In Florence, he followed with another milestone, the "David." This larger-than-life marble sculpture remains a symbol of High Renaissance ideals—combining physical perfection with intellectual strength. By the age of 30, Michelangelo had risen to become a celebrated artist, mentioned alongside Leonardo da Vinci.

From 1508, Michelangelo increasingly devoted himself to painting and was commissioned by Pope Julius II to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. Over four years, he created a monumental work impressing not only with its vast scale but especially with its expressive, anatomically precise depiction of biblical scenes. The depiction of Adam receiving the spark of life from God is among the most iconic in art history. Although he always considered himself a sculptor, Michelangelo demonstrated his mastery in painting with this work.

In 1534, Michelangelo moved permanently to Rome, spending his final decades there. During this time, he increasingly turned to architecture, significantly shaping the image of the Eternal City. In 1547, he was appointed to oversee the construction of the new St. Peter's Basilica, giving its dome its characteristic appearance.

Michelangelo, alongside Leonardo da Vinci, completed the High Renaissance and was as versatile as he was significant. He passed away on February 18, 1564, in Rome. His work continues to endure as one of the greatest legacies of Western art history.

© MYARTPRINTS.COM

All images by Michelangelo Buonarroti

To the top