Study of figure to "Battle of Cascina"

"Study of figure to 'Battle of Cascina'" epitomizes the artistry of the High Renaissance period. Michelangelo was commissioned to create this fresco for the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. The painting represents a pivotal moment in the historical Battle of Cascina. However, Michelangelo had only managed to produce the preparatory sketch and study when he was called to Rome by Pope Julius II. Interrupting his work on the fresco, he traveled to Rome to work on the Pope's tomb, returning to Florence only briefly to complete the cartoon of the image.