The Punishment of Tityus 1532

Michelangelo made this drawing of Tityus in pen and ink, a medium that allowed him to explore the effects of light and shadow, and create a sense of depth. It shows the mythological figure Tityus, who was condemned to eternal torment for assaulting the goddess Leto, being punished by an eagle that feeds on his liver. The subject is not just the narrative, but also the anatomy of Tityus, rendered with careful attention to the musculature and bone structure. The hatching and cross-hatching techniques used in the drawing give the figures a three-dimensionality, emphasizing the weight and volume of Tityus’s body, but also the eagle, with the texture of its feathers. The physical process of drawing, with its layering of lines, mirrors the laborious and repetitive nature of Tityus’s eternal punishment, and the artist’s dedication to mastering his craft. By focusing on the materials and methods used, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in creating this powerful image, seeing beyond the traditional hierarchies of fine art and craft.