Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564) was one of the three great masters of the High Renaissance.

He considered himself primarily a sculptor, and his works are known for their emotional intensity and anatomical realism.

His most famous sculptures include the 'Pietà,' the colossal statue of 'David' in Florence, and 'Moses' in Rome.

Despite his preference for sculpture, he was commissioned by Pope Julius II to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

The Sistine Chapel ceiling, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, is one of the greatest masterpieces of Western art.

Years later, he returned to the chapel to paint 'The Last Judgment' on the altar wall.

As an architect, his most significant work was as the chief architect of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, for which he designed its magnificent dome.

Michelangelo was known for his formidable and solitary personality and his deep religious faith.

His work had a profound influence on the development of later art movements, particularly Mannerism.

His long and prolific career produced some of the most iconic works of the Renaissance.