Main theme: the political contrasts in Florence at the turn of the century and their reflection in Michelangelo's artistic work.

Part 5. Michelangelo and Leonardo competing

• Michelangelo and Leonardo's rivalry. Leonardo and Michelangelo were the polar opposites. While Leonardo was known for his social grace, Michelangelo was anti-social, always working reclusively. The two artists' rivalry blew wide open in a legendary encounter in front of Palazzo Spini
• Battlescenes for Palazzo Signoria. In an attempt to restore the dignity of the Republic a new chamber for the Great Council had been built in Palazzo Signoria during 1495-8; now it was awaiting its final decoration. At Soderini's instigation Leonardo and Michelangelo's rivalry would reach unprecedented heights in the commission for decorating the hall. Similar to the patriotic sentiments behind the David commission the Signoria looked to decorate the hall with patriotic battle scenes. The city could use a boost in spirits for Charles VIII's invasion Florence's territory had greatly reduced her territory. Leonardo had already been commissioned in 1503 and chosen the Battle of Anghiari as theme. In 1504 Soderini turned to Michelangelo to decorate the opposite side of the hall; he chose a scene from the Battle of Casina.
• Sala del Papa. In October 1503 Leonardo was given a studio by the church of Santa Maria Novella where the Sala del Papa could accommodate the huge cartoon for the fresco.
• Sant' Onafrio. Meanwhile Michelangelo was busy working on his cartoon in the Hospital at Sant' Onafrio.
• The public viewing. Both artists' cartoons were put on public display in March 1505. Raphael, who was in Florence at the time, made drawings of the cartoons. As for Michelangelo, he left Florence a few months later. Leonardo portrayal of battle is a traditional approach to painting, imposing unity and order on a scene of mayhem. Each figure reveals individuality in facial expression. Michelangelo's composition on the other hand was one of individual bodies, the figures struggling not with one another but with themselves. He thereby rejected Leonardo's dynamic unity.

Sights and art works:

Palazzo Spini

Great Council Hall, Palazzo Signoria

Sala del Papa, Santa Maria Novella

Sant' Onofrio

Battle of Anghiari, after Leonardo, Galleria Uffizi