How did Pope Paul III support Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel?

Pope Paul III played a crucial role in the completion of Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel. Although the fresco The Last Judgment was originally commissioned by his predecessor, Pope Clement VII, it was under the reign of Paul III that the work was executed and finalized between 1536 and 1541.12

Paul III actively supported and encouraged the artist, famously cajoling Michelangelo to ensure the completion of the masterpiece. Despite the controversy surrounding the fresco’s pervasive nudity—which drew criticism from figures such as the papal master of ceremonies, Biagio da Cesena—the Pope maintained his patronage of the artist. Beyond the Sistine Chapel, Paul III further demonstrated his support for Michelangelo by commissioning him to decorate the Pauline Chapel and to complete the architectural plans for St. Peter’s Basilica.31