Michelangelo was one of the most transitional and inspirational artists of the Renaissance era. His pieces have given insight into that period of time by his numerous masterpieces and his versatile style. One of his infamous pieces of artwork was the bust of Brutus. Michelangelo created this piece during the uprising for freedom and independence the Florentines wanted from the Medici dynasty. Although, the latter had assisted him in building his career and took him in as family, he did not like the direction that Medici family was going.
The piece was commissioned by Donato Gianotti for the Cardinal Niccolo Ridolfi (CITE). It took Michelangelo about one year to complete the piece, specifically 1539 to 1540(1). The piece, like most of Michelangelo’s work, has deep symbolism. In one article, it stated that, “Michelangelo wanted to represent a symbol of freedom and rebellion against the current “tyrants” of Florence.” The story of Julius Cesar and Brutus was parallel with what was happening in Florence with the Medici (1). The Julius Cesar of the time was Alessandro de Medici and Brutus was Lorenzo de Medici (1). Another article mentioned that it was Michelangelo giving insight into the lost freedom of his beloved city, Florence (2). The bust was in
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His full name was Marcus Junius Brutus was born around 85 BC in Philippi, Macedonia. His personality was very arrogant and during his dealing he had a tendency to be cruel (3). Brutus held several jobs including; Senator, consul, and city praetor (3). In addition, Caesar influenced his career tremendously and helped him get elected for some of his positions that he held. Unfortunately, Brutus was one of many senators who wanted Caesar assassinated due to the increase of dictatorship from Caesar. After helping to assassinate Julius, Brutus fled the city and eventually killed himself after the battle of Philippi