Sistine Chapel

Cappella sistina, aspetto originario, stampa del XIX secolo

Cappella Sistina - 2005

Cappella sistina, ricostruzione dell'interno prima degli interventi di Michelangelo, stampa del XIX secolo

Assumption of Mary perugino drawing

Sistina con arazzi

Sistine Chapel vertical scheme

Sistine Chapel is a renowned chapel located in the Vatican City. Named after Pope Sixtus IV, who commissioned its restoration between 1477 and 1480, the chapel stands as a monumental work of art and architecture. It is especially famous for its exquisite ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, and The Last Judgment on the altar wall, also by Michelangelo, completed in 1541.

History

The Sistine Chapel was originally built by Pope Sixtus IV in 1473-1481 on the site of the Cappella Magna. The chapel's design, attributed to architects such as Baccio Pontelli and Giovanni de Dolci, features a rectangular floor plan and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. It is part of the Vatican Museums and serves as the site of the Papal conclave, the process by which a new Pope is selected.

Architecture

The architecture of the Sistine Chapel is a reflection of the Renaissance style, characterized by its clear, harmonious proportions and its incorporation of classical elements. The exterior may seem modest, but the interior is richly decorated with frescoes by some of the most celebrated artists of the Renaissance, including Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino, Domenico Ghirlandaio, and Michelangelo.

Michelangelo's Ceiling

Commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1508, Michelangelo's ceiling is one of the most admired works of Western art. The ceiling's complex design includes over 300 figures and depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the famous Creation of Adam. Michelangelo's innovative use of perspective and anatomy, along with his ability to imbue his figures with dramatic intensity, marked a significant departure from the conventions of Renaissance art.

The Last Judgment

Between 1536 and 1541, Michelangelo painted The Last Judgment on the altar wall of the chapel, a monumental fresco that depicts the Second Coming of Christ and the final and eternal judgment by God of all humanity. The work is notable for its dynamic compositions and the powerful, muscular figures that populate the scene, reflecting Michelangelo's mature style.

Conservation and Restoration

The Sistine Chapel's frescoes have undergone several restorations, the most recent and comprehensive of which took place in the late 20th century. These restorations have sparked debate among art historians, with some arguing that the cleaning may have removed a layer of paint applied by Michelangelo himself. However, the restorations have also revealed the vibrant original colors and details of the frescoes, which had been obscured by centuries of grime and smoke.

Cultural Impact

The Sistine Chapel is a symbol of the Vatican's power and its cultural and religious significance. It attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to admire its art and architecture. The chapel's frescoes have influenced countless artists and have been studied extensively for their artistic and theological depth.

See Also

• Renaissance art
• Vatican City
• Papal conclave
• Michelangelo