The Fall of Phaeton by Michelangelo Buonarroti is a dramatic Renaissance drawing depicting the mythological fall of Phaethon from the sun chariot. Michelangelo developed several versions of the composition in 1533 for his friend Tommaso de' Cavalieri.
The Story of Phaethon
The subject comes from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Phaethon attempts to drive the solar chariot, loses control of the horses and causes catastrophe. Jupiter intervenes with a thunderbolt, sending Phaethon falling from the sky.
A Composition Built Around Falling Movement
Michelangelo organizes the drawing around a powerful vertical movement. Jupiter and his eagle occupy the upper area, Phaethon and the horses tumble through the centre, while the grieving Heliades and river god Eridanus appear below.
The Horses and Human Figures
The tumbling horses intensify the sense of disaster. Michelangelo combines complicated anatomy, twisting bodies and overlapping forms to create a composition that appears almost sculptural despite being drawn on paper.
Tommaso de' Cavalieri
The drawing belongs to Michelangelo's mature group of presentation drawings made for Tommaso de' Cavalieri. Surviving versions show the artist refining the composition and exploring different arrangements.
Classical Mythology in Renaissance Art
The subject allowed Michelangelo to explore dramatic movement, anatomy and emotional contrast through a classical myth. The work demonstrates that his mature artistic practice extended beyond religious commissions.
Displaying The Fall of Phaeton
The vertical composition works particularly well in a study, library, office or reading room. A framed presentation is especially appropriate for the character of a Renaissance drawing.
Available Reproduction Formats
Museum-Quality Canvas Print: Creates a strong vertical statement.
Museum-Quality Fine Art Print: Highlights the graphic qualities of the drawing.
Museum-Quality Framed Print: Provides a formal presentation suited to Renaissance art.
100% Hand-Painted Oil Painting Reproduction: Individually painted on canvas by professional artists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Fall of Phaeton?
It is Michelangelo's dramatic depiction of the classical myth of Phaethon falling from the sun chariot.
When was it created?
The major surviving versions date to around 1533.
Who was it made for?
Michelangelo created presentation drawings of the subject for Tommaso de' Cavalieri.
Where are versions of the drawing held?
Versions are held in major collections including the Royal Collection Trust, British Museum and Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice.
Is this the original drawing?
No. Alpha Art Gallery offers reproductions intended for display.
Does Alpha Art Gallery offer free worldwide shipping?
Yes. Alpha Art Gallery provides free worldwide shipping on all orders.
A Dramatic Masterpiece of Renaissance Drawing
The Fall of Phaeton brings mythology, anatomy, movement and psychological drama together in one of Michelangelo's most remarkable drawings.