Charles Holroyd's biography on Michael Angelo Buonarroti is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the life and works of one of history's greatest artists. Spanning over 500 pages, Holroyd meticulously delves into the details of Buonarroti's life, shedding new light on his creative genius and the circumstances that shaped him.
The book begins with a thorough examination of Buonarroti's early life, providing readers with a deep understanding of his family background and the cultural milieu in which he grew up. Holroyd's research is extensive, drawing from a wide range of sources to present a comprehensive and accurate account of the artist's formative years.
As the narrative progresses, Holroyd navigates the complex web of Buonarroti's artistic endeavors, from his early sculptures to his later paintings and architecture. Rich with detailed descriptions and accompanied by numerous illustrations, the book allows readers to fully appreciate the evolution of Buonarroti's style and the profound impact he had on the art world.
Holroyd’s writing style is engaging yet scholarly, blending vivid storytelling with thoughtful analysis. His passion for the subject matter shines through, making it easy for readers to get swept up in the world of Renaissance Italy and the artistic brilliance of Buonarroti. Moreover, Holroyd's well-reasoned interpretations of Buonarroti's works provide valuable insights into the artist's intentions and the historical context in which they were created.
One of the highlights of this biography is the attention given to Buonarroti's personal life and relationships. Holroyd delves into the artist's troubled personality, exploring his deep-seated emotional struggles, his tumultuous relationship with the Medici family, and his complex love life. By exploring these aspects, the biography provides a more nuanced understanding of Buonarroti as a person and the motivations that drove his artistic pursuits.
However, it must be noted that at times the book can become dense and overwhelming, particularly for readers who may not be well-versed in art history or the intricacies of Renaissance politics. The sheer volume of information presented throughout the biography can be daunting, and some readers may find themselves struggling to keep up with the wealth of names, dates, and artistic terminology.
Nevertheless, for those who can endure the occasional challenge, Charles Holroyd’s biography on Michael Angelo Buonarroti offers a captivating journey into the life and mind of one of the greatest artists in history. Through meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling, Holroyd succeeds in providing readers with a comprehensive and meaningful exploration of Buonarroti's life and works. This book is a must-read for art enthusiasts and those curious about the life and legacy of the iconic Michael Angelo Buonarroti.
First Page:
Michael Angelo Buonarroti By Charles Holroyd,Keeper of the National Gallery of British Art, with Translations of the Life of the Master by His Scholar, Ascanio Condivi, and Three Dialogues from the Portuguese by Francisco d'Ollanda
London Duckworth and Company
New York Charles Scribner's Sons
1903
[Frontispiece]
MICHAEL ANGELO
From an early proof of the engraving by GIULIO BONASONI ( In the Print Room of the British Museum )
CONTENTS
Preface Illustrations PART I CHAPTER I CHAPTER II CHAPTER III CHAPTER IV CHAPTER V CHAPTER VI CHAPTER VII CHAPTER VIII CHAPTER IX CHAPTER X CHAPTER XI PART II CHAPTER I CHAPTER II CHAPTER III CHAPTER IV CHAPTER V CHAPTER VI CHAPTER VII CHAPTER VIII CHAPTER IX CHAPTER X CHAPTER XI APPENDIX FIRST DIALOGUE SECOND DIALOGUE THIRD DIALOGUE THE WORKS OF MICHAEL ANGELO A LIST OF THE PRINCIPAL BOOKS CONSULTED BY THE AUTHOR ERRATUM INDEX
PREFACE
Of all the many lives of Michael Angelo that have been written, that by his friend and pupil, Ascanio Condivi, is the most valuable. For not only is it a contemporary record, like the lives inserted by Giorgio Vasari in the two editions of his famous book, "The Lives of the Most Eminent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects," published in Florence in 1550 and 1568; but Condivi's work has almost the authority of an autobiography, many phrases are in the same words, as certain letters in the hand of Michael Angelo still in existence, especially those relating to the early life and the ancestry of the master, to his favourite nephew Lionardo, and concerning the whole story of the Tragedy of the Tomb to Francesco Fattucci and others... Continue reading book >>
