The Sistine Chapel

Children's Literature

Among the architectural treasures of the world, the Sistine Chapel stands out as a prime example of the artistic beauty of the Renaissance. This volume of the Building History Series takes a look back at the distant and recent past to provide a fascinating overview of the evolution and restoration of the artwork encompassed by the Vatican's Sistine Chapel. Beginning with the planning efforts of Pope Sixtus in the late 15th century, and culminating in the restoration efforts of the late 20th century, this book provides an indepth look at how this artistic marvel took shape. Originally planned to encompass wall frescoes, a blue tinted ceiling with stars, and a few statues, the Sistine Chapel came to be far more ornate and striking than could have been envisioned. While the early frescoes of artists such as Perugino and Botticelli were the first elements of decoration, the most famous artistic edifices in the Sistine Chapel are those of the immortal Michelangelo. When selected to complete the ceiling design, Michelangelo initially begged to not be given that assignment. Michelangelo was renowned as a sculptor, and was not secure in his talents as a painter. Furthermore, he had far less experience with the fresco medium than some of his contemporaries. However, four years later, he had completed the amazing ceiling murals that continue to astound modern viewers. Michelangelo also dedicated several years to the completion of the huge fresco entitled The Last Judgment that serves as a background for the Chapel alter. The story of Michelangelo, his papal patrons, and critical views of the work within the Sistine Chapel, all make this a memorable story. This book combines a great deal ofinformation with a clever text, and will capture the interest of readers with an eye for art history. Perhaps the most intriguing portion of the book is its final chapter, which addresses the controversial, but ultimately successful, restoration of Michelangelo's work. All in all, this is a wellresearched and cogently written illustrated history of an amazing artistic treasure. 2000, Lucent Books, Ages 10 up, $18.96. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck