Search - Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling

This is a nonfictional accounting that reads like a novel, compelling and full of illuminating writing. It was one of our group's best book club discussions in the nonfiction category. Ross King's version recounts the four extraordinary years Michelangelo spent laboring over the vast ceiling in the Sistine Chapel while the power politics and personal rivalries that abounded in Rome swirled around him. A panorama of illustrious figures converged around the creation of this magnificent work - from the Dutch scholar 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. Read this, then rent "The Agony and the Ecstasy" (starring Charlton Heston) for a truly unforgettable journey into art history.

Excellent narrative and history of Michelangelo's struggles and triumph in painting the Sistine Chapel. A well written, detailed account of the interplay between Raphael, Michelangelo and Pope Julius II.

A wonderful book. In 1508, despite strong advice to the contrary, the powerful Pope Julius II commissioned Michaelangelo to paint the ceiling of the newly restored Sistine Chapel. With little experience as a painter (though famed for his sculpture David, Michaelangelo was reluctant to begin the massive project.
Michaelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling recounts the four extraordinary years he 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, Michaelangelo created scenes so beautiful that they are considered to be among the greatest masterpieces of all time. A panorama of illustrious figures converged around the creation of this magnificent work-from the great Dutch scholar 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.

This book is an acount of the history of the Sistine chapel. It focuses on Michelangelo's painted of it. If you like the film the Agony & the Ecstacy, you will enjoy this book.

Very good book; about Michelangelo and Italian history during the time period when Michelangelo was painting the Sistine Chapel (1510). Includes the Papal politics and Artistic background and history on how fresco painting was done. Good Michelangelo biography material, too.
ASC

Informative and enthralling! Loved it!