San Pietro in Vincoli_01
Located in the church of San Pietro in Vincoli, Michelangelo’s Moses is the famous statue that decorates the tomb of Julius II. Completed in 1515 during the late medieval and Renaissance period, this statue draws thousands upon thousands of visitors to the tomb of Julius II, which was a prominent and greatly desired goal he had. While Julius II wanted Michelangelo to ultimately construct a magnificent three story high tomb for him, the end result was not what he or Michelangelo had envisioned. Funding for Julius’ tomb was cut due to the greater interest he obtained for rebuilding St. Peter’s, which is now the most grandeur and famous church in Rome. Today, only Michelangelo’s Moses stands to adorn the tomb of Julius II. While Michelangelo viewed this occurrence as “the tragedy of the tomb,” it seems that he was not aware of the great impact this piece would have not only on people around the world but also the Catholic Church. The incredibly detailed depiction of Moses is powerful and uplifting. As the focal figure in the structure, the statue of Moses stands out far beyond comparison to the various statues surrounding it. Visitors are continually drawn and amazed by the statue one of the most significant biblical leaders. Some claim that Michelangelo incorporated characteristics of Julius II in his creation of Moses, allowing the viewer to experience the passion and energy of Julius II. I am in awe of Michelangelo’s Moses, a humble yet majestic work of art in which one’s attention is captivated instantaneously. Julius II ultimately wanted and achieved great reverence due to the extraordinary talent of Michelangelo seen in this renowned masterpiece.
Renee Cloutier, Survey of Art and Architecture in Italy, St John’s University
San Pietro in Vincoli_02
San Pietro in Vincoli is in a basilica in Rome which is best known for Michelangelo’s statue of Moses, which is part of the tomb Pope Julius II. It is also known as Basilica Eudoxiana. The basilica was built in 432 to 440. It was built for the relic of chains that bound Saint Peter when he was imprisoned in Jerusalem. According to a legend, the chains were fused together miraculously after they were given to Pope Leo I by Empress Eudoxia ( wife of Emperor Valentinia III) when they were compared to the chains from when Saint Peters final imprisonment in the Mamertine prison of Rome. The chains are kept in a reliquary under the main alter in the basilica. The basilica underwent many restorations since it was built. The restorations were done by Pope Adrian I, and the rebuilding was done by Pope Sixtus IV and Pope Julius II. In 1475 the front Portico was added and attributed to Baccio Pontelli. In 1493-1503 the Cloister was added and attributed to Giuilano da Sangallo. The most recent Cardinal Priest of the basilica was Pio Cardinal Laghi, who died on January 11, 2009. Inside the basilica is the statue of Michelangelo’s Moses which was completed in 1515. It was intended to be part of a massive 47-statue, free standing funeral monument and tomb for Pope Julius II. However it became the centerpiece of the Popes funeral monument and tomb in this, his family church (della Rovere family). The Moses is a marble sculpture done by Michelangelo Buonarroti, which depicts the biblical figure of Moses. The statue was originally intended to go into Saint Peters basilica, but instead went into San Pietro in Vincoli, due to the Popes death. I enjoyed going to see this church. I think it was very beautiful, and I don’t know why, but the Michelangelo statue stuck with me. The statue is amazing, and very big, and full of detail. I don’t think I would ever be able to create something as beautiful and impressive ever. So I think that’s why I just sit back and take in other people abilities and admire their artwork.
Hillary Woodrow, Survey of Art and Architecture, Berkeley College
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