Michelangelo Buonarroti 1475 – 1564

The Creation of Adam

fresco (480 ∅ 230 cm) — 1508-1512 Museum Sistine Chapel, Vatican City

Michelangelo Buonarroti biography

This work is linked to Genesis 1:27

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An energetic, dynamic, flying God points his finger at Adam, who is struck with life. There is no visible spark, but Michelangelo did not need one to create this very strong image.

Adam is shown as a powerful youth, who in the center of the composition receives the breath of life.

The divine dynamism is depicted in God's blowing hair and beard. He is seated on a purple robe, surrounded by angels.

This well-known fresco is part of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, showing several other episodes from Genesis as well.

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