The Secret Life of Michelangelo

Ken Schuman has deftly connected the artist and his context--a Florence rich in artistic tradition, but also roiling with tensions and intolerance for any dissident religious or political beliefs. In this fascinating and insightful biography, Schuman argues persuasively that Michelangelo often embedded subtle, coded messages in his creations, thereby providing plausible deniability in case the authorities guessed his true intent. Schuman is at his sleuth-like best when teasing out and helping us to see what has been hiding in plain sight since Michelangelo first created it.
--Bob Clyman, author, Secret Order

Heretical in his spiritual beliefs, homosexual in his desires, and politically vulnerable to Rome’s deadly politics, Michelangelo hid his secret beliefs in his art. After reading this fascinating, accessible and revelatory book, you’ll never look at Michelangelo’s genius the same again.
--Laurie Lico Albanese, co-author, The Miracles of Prato

Ken Schuman’s groundbreaking new book “The Secret Life of Michelangelo” brings to life the artist we never knew and the turbulent times in which he lived.
--Steven Mintz, author, Five Eminent Contrarians