The Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet Michelangelo

Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni, commonly known as Michelangelo, was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet of the High Renaissance. Born in 1475 in the small town of Caprese, Italy, Michelangelo was recognized early on as a prodigy in the arts and began his apprenticeship at the age of 13 under the guidance of the painter Domenico Ghirlandaio.

Michelangelo's most famous works include the sculptures "David" and "Pieta," as well as the frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome, which depict scenes from the Book of Genesis. The Sistine Chapel frescoes, completed between 1508 and 1512, are considered some of the greatest works of art of all time and are a masterpiece of Renaissance art.

In addition to his sculptures and frescoes, Michelangelo was also a highly skilled architect, and designed several notable buildings, including the Laurentian Library in Florence and the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Michelangelo's work was highly influential during his lifetime and continues to be admired and studied today. He is considered one of the greatest artists in history and his work continues to inspire and influence artists around the world. His technique and style are still studied and emulated by many art students, and his masterpieces are considered some of the most iconic works of art of all time.

Overall, Michelangelo was one of the most celebrated artists of the Renaissance period, and his contributions to art and architecture have had a lasting impact on the world. His sculptures and frescoes, as well as his architectural designs, are considered masterpieces and continue to be admired and studied today.

Must read: 10 Most famous painters of all time!

Image header: Michelangelo, The Last Judgment (1534–1541) (detail)