Michelangelo, Giant of the Renaissance (Part Two)

Michelangelo, the Eternal Genius

The relationship between Julius II and Michelangelo has been dramatized as a nasty battle of wills between two egocentric men. In actuality, Michelangelo’s issue with the Pope stemmed from the reality that Julius’ main focus was to expand the territory of the Papal States and the ensuing warfare that would be required. Michelangelo’s artistic projects would always be secondary to this fundamental.

As soon as the Last Judgment was completed the Della Rovere clan began agitating for a completion of Julius II’s tomb. Luckily, Pope Paul wished to have Michelangelo focus on his own pet projects, namely a Vatican chapel dedicated in his honor. The pontiff helped negotiate a new agreement that limited Julius’ tomb to three main sculptures, including the Moses.

Julius II Tomb, St. Peter in Vincoli, Rome

This was accepted and the more modest tomb was brought to a anti-climatic conclusion in 1545, with the completion of two statues, Leah and Rachel, placed to the left and right of Moses in a two story facade i

Published on 9 years, 3 months ago

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Michelangelo, Giant of the Renaissance (Part Two)