About this book
Charles Holroyd's Michael Angelo Buonarroti offers an extraordinary portrait of the Renaissance master through the eyes of those who knew him best. Drawing from Ascanio Condivi's firsthand account—written by Michelangelo's own pupil and friend—this biography captures the genius, struggles, and human complexity of one of history's greatest artists with unparalleled intimacy and authority.
Unlike other biographical works, Holroyd enriches his narrative with Condivi's nearly autobiographical chronicle, supplemented by Francisco d'Ollanda's dialogues and Michelangelo's own letters. Together, these primary sources create a vivid portrait of the artist's life, from his early years and family ancestry through his monumental achievements in sculpture, painting, and architecture. Readers encounter not just the creator of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and David, but a fully realized human being—passionate, troubled, and driven by an uncompromising artistic vision.
This scholarly yet accessible biography bridges Renaissance history and art appreciation, offering deep insights into Michelangelo's creative process, his relationships, and the turbulent times that shaped his work. Holroyd, himself a keeper of the National Gallery of British Art, brings both expertise and reverence to his subject.
Perfect for art historians, Renaissance enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand the life behind the masterpieces, this audiobook illuminates why Michelangelo remains an enduring icon of human achievement and artistic brilliance.
