We started class by discussing Michelangelo’s Pietá, which is a marble statue depicting Mary holding Jesus after his death. Michelangelo portrays Mary as incredibly young, perhaps the same age as the Nativity. This is potentially a call back to that scene, since she is holding Jesus as a baby, tying together the start and end of his life. Additionally, Michelangelo employs the use of clothing and fabric to give the illusion of Mary being able to support the body of a fully grown adult. This sculpture comes across as very soothing, reflecting the idea of harmony associated with the work of the High Renaissance.
We also discussed Mannerism and how Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel reflects the transition between the High Renaissance and Mannerism. Michelangelo’s frescos depict scenes from the Bible from the Old Testament, progressing in order as you walk through the Chapel. Unlike other paintings at the time, Michelangelo employed much more vibrant colors and complexity. This shows the shift from the simplicity and harmony associated with the High Renaissance to the complexity and odd color palate of Mannerism. The shift to Mannerism can be attributed to potentially both the Protestant Reformation and the Medici take over of Florence.