Michelangelo was an Italian artist born in 1469 near Florence who excelled in architecture, sculpture, and painting during the Renaissance. Some of his most famous works include the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel painted between 1508-1512 depicting stories from Genesis, as well as sculptures such as David and Pieta. He lived a long life, working until age 89 and dying in 1564, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest artists in history.