Michelangelo passed the sweltering August night in his workshop, awake. He slumped over his drafting table, drinking a bottle of Chianti his brother Buonarroto had sent him. It was impossible to forget the stinging words of his critics that day. Where’s the theme? one cardinal had asked. He’s really not very good at foreshortening, Bramante [...]
Going Home to Florence (2)
As usual, Michelangelo was warmly welcomed by his family at home in Florence. “It’s good to have you here again, son,” Lodovico said. He was wearing a new fine silk robe, and he rubbed the material between his fingers. “We’ll have a great feast to celebrate your return. Also, there are several properties south of [...]
Decisions (3)
Granacci knew Michelangelo better than anyone — perhaps better than Michelangelo knew himself. After a long night with little sleep, Granacci knew what he needed to do next to help his friend. “I’m going back to Florence,” he announced to Michelangelo the next morning. “And I’m taking the other five with me.” “You’re leaving? Abandoning [...]
