During Michelangelo’s time, young men entered the field of art through apprenticeships with more experienced artists. During their apprenticeships, they would follow the techniques and styles of their mentors as well as artists from other periods. Although Michelangelo did not spend a large amount of time in Ghirlandaio’s workshop and was considered by many to be a self-taught artist, models and influences from decades and even centuries before his time made a lasting impression on Michelangelo; these influences can be seen in a number of his works. Artists that had a large impact on the life of Michelangelo include: Donatello, Ghirlandaio, Giotto, and Masaccio. These are the artists on which we will be focusing.

Pictures used with permission from the Web Gallery of Art