A key figure in the Italian Renaissance, Michelangelo Buonarroti was a sculptor, painter and architect whose unique skill was recognized when he created a stunning marble Piet? in Rome, and the over-life size sculpture of David in Florence, both completed before he was 30. His frescoes on the vaulted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, Rome confirmed his exceptional talent. He was hailed as a genius; an accolade he richly deserved. The first half of this stunning new book explores Michelangelo's fascinating life through his family, friends, patrons and commissions. Born near Florence in 1475 Michelangelo grew up surrounded by new forms of architecture, painting and sculpture. In Florence the architectural works of Brunelleschi, the paintings of Masaccio and the sculpture of Donatello had created a resurgence of interest in the art and architecture of antiquity. Inspired by these artists, Michelangelo fought off family pressure and persisted in his ambition to become a sculptor. Nicknamed Il Divino (?the divine one?) by his contemporaries, Michelangelo was greatly admired, and played a huge part in the emergence of Mannerism ? a style of art favoured by artists who were influenced by, and reacted to, the harmonious ideals and naturalism associated with Renaissance art. His influences and achievements are explained clearly and comprehensively with informative and attractive illustrations throughout. Michelangelo's artistic output was immense ? he is the best-documented artist of his time. The second half of the book contains a comprehensive gallery of over 300 of his major works of sculpture, painting and architecture. These superb reproductions are accompanied by thorough analysis of each artwork and its significance with the context of Michelangelo's life, his technique and his body of work as a whole. This extraordinary new book is an essential volume for anyone who wants to learn more about this intriguing artist, and to survey his greatest works in one beautifully illustrated collection.