Michelangelo

by Trewin Copplestone

This is an examination of Michaelangelo's art in relation to the developing Italian Renaissance, a period of unique interest and achievement. To understand Michaelangelo, therefore, it is important to see him in the context of Renaissance society before placing the dominating figure of Michaelangelo at its artistic heart.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Reference

443 pages, Paperback

First published September 9, 1998

Reviews

[Francis]

Some cool statues, lots of his abandoned / unfinished works.
First third reads like an art history project, after that's done it's photos and captions.

Coffee table material

[Indig08]

The formulation of Mr. Copperstone’s assessment, regarding the paintings in the Sistine chapel are evidently very whitewashed due to his WASP nature. He apparently did not research Italian law, Michelangelo, or the renaissance time. I certainly appreciate the photography that was involved in this book, however, his comments on these three subjects, lack thorough research. He appears to have stopped any in-depth research and allowed his opinions to remain with the to idle gossip from that time period. It’s rather like reading People Magazine and expecting the authors to have done the same quality of research found in the New York Times. Michelangelo was not an extrovert with gentle, social manners. It’s easy to get bushwhacked by those who wish to sully your name when you are an introvert.

[Mloy]

As with most art books, this is always an interesting read because not only does it shows a glimpse into the life of the artist but also showcases beautiful examples of their work. Michaelangelo's place in history is so well deserved when you learn the painstaking process it took to paint one of the most renown works- The Sistine Chapel; plus, his vast collection of sculptures just leaves you in awe of his masterful skills, especially when you think that this was all achieved with probably just a chisel, a hammer and lots of man-hours. All his masterpieces are absolutely breath taking... he's the OG of "often imitated but never duplication. What an amazing artist.

[Dennis]

Good overview of all the pieces from his life, including his accomplishments in sculpture, painting and architecture.