Study for "The Last Judgement"

'Study for "The Last Judgement"' is a meticulous sketch and study executed by Michelangelo in preparation for his massive fresco, "The Last Judgement", in the Sistine Chapel. The study, done on paper mainly using chalk, demonstrates Michelangelo's deep understanding of human anatomy and the principles of Mannerism (late renaissance) style. It depicts the momentous and dramatic scenes from the Christian eschatology, the second coming of Christ, and the eternal judgment of humanity. With more than 300 figures, it's an elaborate exploration of the artist's ideas and compositional plans for the final painting.