The basic structure of the Sistine Chapel was built using traditional materials of the 15th century:
Brick and Stone:
The walls were primarily made of brick, a common and durable material for large buildings during the Renaissance.
Some travertine stone, a type of limestone, was used for decorative elements and structural supports.
Mortar:
Lime-based mortar was used to bind the bricks together, typical of Renaissance construction.
Wood:
Wooden scaffolding was used during construction and later for Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco work.
Interior Decoration
The chapel’s walls and ceiling were adorned with elaborate frescoes, requiring a variety of specialized materials:
Fresco Technique
The Sistine Chapel’s artwork was executed using the fresco technique, which involves painting onto freshly applied plaster.
Plaster (Intonaco):
A mix of lime (calcium hydroxide) and fine sand was used to create a smooth plaster layer. This plaster was applied in sections (giornate) to allow painting while the surface was still wet.
Pigments:
Natural pigments were mixed with water to create the fresco’s colors. These pigments chemically bonded with the wet plaster as it dried, creating durable artwork.
Common pigments used:
Ultramarine: Derived from crushed lapis lazuli, used for vibrant blues (e.g., Mary’s robes in the ceiling scenes).
Ochres: Earth-based pigments providing yellows and browns.
Vermilion: Made from powdered cinnabar, used for rich reds.
Green Earth: A natural clay pigment for greens.
Carbon Black: Made from burned organic materials for deep blacks.
White Lead: Used for highlights and pale tones.
Gold Leaf (Limited Use):
Gold leaf was sparingly used in some decorative elements of the chapel, though not prominently in Michelangelo’s frescoes.
Architectural Features
Flooring:
The floor of the Sistine Chapel is made of marble and porphyry, arranged in intricate geometric patterns. This opus sectile design reflects the artistic and architectural tastes of the Renaissance.
Michelangelo’s Scaffolding
Michelangelo designed his own scaffolding system for painting the ceiling.
Materials Used:
Wooden planks supported by holes in the chapel’s walls (some of which are still visible today).
This design allowed Michelangelo to work close to the ceiling without obstructing activities below.
