Michelangeloms Sistine Chapel Michelangelo, a Renaissance painter, sculptor, and even architect is considered to be one of the most well known artists in history. In 1508 Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. He spent the next 4 years on his back creating his great masterpiece. In this screen saver you can view many of the scenes from the Old Testament painted by Michelangelo on the Sistine ceiling.