Although Raphael’s fresco known as the “School of Athens” is the most celebrated painting of the Stanza della Segnatura, it is actually a part of a much larger program. This episode addresses the original function of the room, which was …
This episode examines the extraordinary career of one of the most important painters in history – Raphael Sanzio da Urbino – better known simply as “Raphael.” Along with Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, Raphael heralded in the period known as …
From unfinished church facades, to postponed Palios, to Renaissance giraffes, to Mona Lisa’s smile, to the building behind the Trevi Fountain – and much, much more – this episode answers the very questions that you asked me about the great …
The prophets and sibyls that flank the main scenes of the Sistine Chapel ceiling are some of Michelangelo’s most impressive figures. Their dramatic poses, expressive, vibrant colors and powerful forms are both inspirational and frightening. Below and between them, Michelangelo filled …
The last three Genesis scenes of the Sistine Chapel ceiling demonstrate Michelangelo’s extraordinary ability to represent complex subjects in incredibly effective ways. But they also reveal the divine artist’s haste to complete the ceiling project. This episode closely examines the …
By the time Michelangelo reached the frescoes in the middle of the ceiling, he introduced a major stylistic change, due, most likely, to being able to see the frescoes from the ground. This episode examines the Adam and Eve scenes …
Painting an 8,000 sq. ft. fresco cycle onto the ceiling of a chapel must have been a daunting task even for an artist of the caliber of Michelangelo. This episode examines the process and order by which Michelangelo executed his …
Although the Sistine Chapel is the Catholic world’s most important chapel since it hosts papal conclaves, the subject matter of the ceiling paintings is largely Old Testament mixed with pagan imagery. This episode unpacks the rich and complex iconography of …
When Michelangelo signed the contract with Pope Julius II in 1508 to paint the Sistine Chapel Ceiling, little did he know the turmoil that awaited him. This first of several podcasts dedicated to the world’s most famous ceiling will examine the circumstances …
After 120 years of construction, the reign of 18 different popes, and the direction of 12 different architects, St. Peter’s Basilica was finally consecrated in 1626. Measuring more than two football fields in length, it was by far the largest …