An Italian sculptor, painter, architect, poet, and engineer of the High Renaissance, Michelangelo is a legend. Born 540 years ago today, he is a man of mystery. Not much is known of his adult personal life and towards the end he destroyed many of his sketches, as he did not want people to know how hard he worked. What does exist however is a rich oeuvre known throughout the world with classics such as David and Sistine Chapel ceiling. It is through these works that we celebrate him today, a master who inspired countless generations of artists.
Michelangelo was a genius in his own right, completing two of his most famous sculptures early in his life. He had a long artistic career, working into his 70s as an architect on St. Peter's Basilica and leaving his mark on all parts of the art world.
Read about the Pre-Raphaelites art movement.