Michelangelo Buonarroti was a leading artist of the Italian Renaissance, which lasted roughly from 1400 until 1700. Michelangelo was born on March 6, 1475, in the Italian Republic of Florence, and died on February 18, 1564, at the age of 88, in Rome, Italy.

The Pieta, made of Carrara marble, is located at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy (Vatican City). This statue was completed by Michelangelo sometime between 1498 and 1499. This sculpture features Jesus of Nazareth being held in the arms of his mother, Mary, after his crucifixion. Interestingly, the Pieta is the only piece of art ever signed by Michelangelo.

Michelangelo's sculpture David, standing just over 5 meters (17 feet) high, was completed sometime around 1504. This statue, made of Carrara marble, was originally placed in a public square, just outside of the Palazzo della Signoria in Florence, Italy. It is currently located in the Galleria dell'Accademia ("Academy of Fine Arts") in Florence, Italy.

Against his will, Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel at the Apostolic Palace, the pope's home in Vatican City (Rome, Italy). Michelangelo completed this series of paintings between 1508 and 1512.

Michelangelo's sculpture Moses was completed sometime between 1513 and 1515. It is located in San Pietro Church in Vincoli in Rome, Italy. This marble statue was commissioned by Pope Julius II for his tomb.