Publisher Description
In 1508, despite strong advice to the contrary, the powerful Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the newly restored Sistine Chapel. With little experience as a painter (though famed for his sculpture David), Michelangelo was reluctant to begin the massive project.
Michelangelo and the Pope’s Ceiling recounts the four extraordinary years Michelangelo spent laboring over the vast ceiling while the power politics and personal rivalries that abounded in Rome swirled around him. Battling against ill health, financial difficulties, domestic problems, the pope’s impatience, and a bitter rivalry with the brilliant young painter Raphael, Michelangelo created scenes so beautiful that they are considered one of the greatest masterpieces of all time. A panorama of illustrious figures converged around the creation of this great work—from the great Dutch scholar Desiderius Erasmus to the young Martin Luther—and Ross King skillfully weaves them through his compelling historical narrative, offering uncommon insight into the intersection of art and history.
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“Ross King does an excellent job of telling the tale of Michelangelo’s painting of the Sistine Chapel ceiling in context of the time. By juxtaposing Michelangelo’s work on the ceiling with that of Raphael’s frescos in the Pope’s chambers, Mr. King reveals the interesting history of art. Like his other works, Mr. King tells the story in short vignettes loaded with detail and the occasional bit of wit. I recommend this book to people who are looking to get a broader understand of the history that surrounded the painting of the ceiling and motivated Michelangelo.”
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Mireserenya (4 out of 5 stars)
