Michelangelo: Divine Artistic Genius, Part 2 of 2

Michelangelo started gaining fame after creating the “Pietà,” a beloved sculpture of the Blessed Virgin Mary cradling the body of Lord Jesus Christ. Following his impressive achievements, Michelangelo became one of the most famous and sought-after artists in Europe. Michelangelo’s interest in the after-life influenced the content of his second painting for the Sistine Chapel. The finished mural, “The Last Judgement,” took him seven years to complete. The fresco depicts the Second Coming of Lord Jesus Christ and His judgement of the souls. Pope Paul III was so overwhelmed by the painting that he fell to his knees in awe and begged God for lenience on his own judgement day. Michelangelo passed away on February 18, 1564, at the age of 88, leaving a remarkable legacy of extraordinary creations that continue to inspire generation after generation. He was the first Western artist to have biographies published during his lifetime. Michelangelo once said, “Death and love are the two wings that bear the good man to Heaven.”