The intriguing histories behind popular masterpieces
There are countless works of art out there that have captivated and mesmerized people for centuries, but did you know that many of these pieces have fascinating backstories? From van Gogh’s Starry Night to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, there’s much more to these iconic pieces than meets the eye.
Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh
Believe it or not, the swirling patterns that make up the famous Starry Night came from Van Gogh’s imagination and not from what was actually visible in the sky. It’s believed that the painting was inspired by the view from the east-facing window of Van Gogh’s asylum room at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, where he was receiving treatment in 1889. But instead of depicting the actual stars, the painting was a representation of his inner turmoil and the emotions he felt during his time in the asylum.
The Sistine Chapel Ceiling by Michelangelo
Michelangelo’s masterpiece is a marvel of Renaissance art, but it wasn’t an easy task by any means. Michelangelo was initially hesitant to accept the commission from Pope Julius II to paint the frescoes that adorned the ceiling because his area of expertise was sculpture. But once he began the project, he worked tirelessly for four years, often lying on his back on a scaffold without proper ventilation. And the most impressive part? Michelangelo didn’t use any kind of brush for the intricate details, but instead used just a simple point of the paintbrush to create the sharp lines and shading.
These are just a few examples of the incredible stories behind some of the world’s most famous works of art. It just goes to show that there’s always more than meets the eye, and the intriguing backstories only add to the beauty and mystery of these masterpieces.
