Science Daily had this interesting article today about hidden imagery in the Sistine Chapel. It seems that that great artist Michaelangelo likely worked in anatomically correct imagery of the human brain stem.
I am always fascinated when artists can include hidden images in their work. Michaelangelo's ability to work in these bits of information are amazing especially when you realize that the church probably would not have condoned the methods used to gain his knowledge.
In the article the author points out that cadavers were used by artists to understand anatomy. It has been said that Michaelangelo studied in a morgue by candlelight which makes the work seem that much more amazing. In fact it was common practice for artists to do so. I don't remember, though if it was still illegal in Michaelangelo's time as it was in Da Vinci's.
It would seem a profound irony if Michaelangelo used illegal methods to create a work of art commissioned and eventually beloved by the church. I also have to wonder if that was going through Michaelangelo's mind as he lay on his back painting the frescoed ceiling.
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