The Fall of Phaeton
by Michelangelo, 1533
StyleRenaissance
MediumPaper
Artwork Details
Details
- Year
- 1533
- Medium
- Black chalk on paper
- Size
- 41.3 cm × 23.4 cm (16.3 × 9.2 in)
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The Fall of Phaeton depicts the moment when Zeus strikes down Phaeton, who had lost control of his father Apollo's sun chariot. Created in 1533 by Michelangelo, this black chalk drawing was a gift for the artist's beloved friend Tommaso de' Cavalieri. The composition shows cascading figures, horses, and the falling chariot in a complex arrangement.
Michelangelo made several versions of this subject for Cavalieri, a young Roman nobleman with whom the aging artist had an intense emotional relationship. The gift drawings were highly finished presentation pieces, not working studies, demonstrating Michelangelo's affection through artistic virtuosity. The mythological subject of forbidden desire and divine punishment may have carried personal meaning.
This version is at the British Museum.
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About The Fall of Phaeton
This version is at the British Museum. Michelangelo made several versions for his friend Tommaso de' Cavalieri.
Cavalieri was a young Roman nobleman with whom Michelangelo had an intense friendship. The artist made elaborate gift drawings to express his affection.
Phaeton drove his father Apollo's sun chariot but lost control. Zeus struck him down to prevent the earth from burning, a tale of youthful recklessness and divine punishment.
The sheet measures 41.3 × 23.4 cm (16.3 × 9.2 inches). The highly finished presentation format suited its purpose as a gift.
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