Page:Vasari - Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects, volume 5.djvu/285

Rh it was afterwards erected beside the principal Chapel in the Minerva by M. Antonio Metelli.

Then followed the Sack of Eome and the exile of the Medici from Florence: and in this change, those who governed the City resolving to rebuild the fortifications, made Michelagnolo Commissary-general of the whole work. In that capacity he prepared numerous designs, adding much to the defences of the city, and more especially surrounding the hill of San Miniato with bastions: these he did not form in the usual manner, of turf, wood, and bundles of faggots, but first constructed a basement of oak, chestnut, and other strong materials, using rough bricks very carefully levelled: he had previously been despatched by the Signoria of Florence to Ferrara, there to inspect the fortifications of artillery and munitions of Duke Alfonso L, when he received many proofs of favour from that Noble, who begged the master to execute some work for him at his leisure; which Michelagnolo promised to do.

Having returned to Florence, he proceeded with the fortifications of the city, and although impeded by numerous engagements, he yet contrived to paint the picture of a Leda for the Duke of Ferrara. This work, which was in tempera, proved to be a divine performance, as will be related in due time. He also continued secretly to labour at the Statues for the Tombs in San Lorenzo. Michelagnolo remained about six months at San Miniato, hastening forward the defences of the Heights, seeing that the city would have been lost, had the enemy made himself master of that point; he consequently devoted the most zealous attention to the works. The before-mentioned Sacristy was also making progress, and Michelagnolo occupied a portion of his time in the execution of seven Statues for that place, some of which he completed wholly, others only in part. In these, as well as in the architecture of the Tombs, all are compelled to admit that he has surpassed every artist in all the three vocations. Among the Statues, either rough-hewn, or finished in marble by Michelagnolo for that Sacristy, is one of Our Lady. This is a seated figure with the limbs crossed, the Infant Christ being placed astride on the uppermost, and