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
language: English
title: Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling
titlecomplete: Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling
characters: Michelangelo, Pope Julius II
genres: Art History, Art, Nonfiction, History, Italy, European History, Historical, Religion, Architecture, Biography
ratings_count: 36418
places: Vatican City, Rome
awards: awardedAt: 1041408000000
name: National Book Critics Circle Award
category: Criticism
publisher: Books on Tape