Battle of the Centaurs

work by Michelangelo

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June 22, 2026

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The Battle of the Centaurs is an early marble sculpture by Michelangelo, created around 1492. It depicts a chaotic scene of conflict between Lapiths and Centaurs, mythical creatures that were part man and part horse. This work, inspired by ancient Roman sarcophagi, showcases Michelangelo's early interest in dynamic and powerful figures, foreshadowing his later artistic style. The sculpture is a testament to the vibrant artistic environment of Florence during that period.12

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Michelangelo
Early life and works
This composition is the Battle of the Centaurs (c. 1492). The action and power of the figures foretell the artist’s later interests much more than does the Madonna of the Stairs (c. 1491), a delicate low relief that reflects recent fashions among such Florentine sculptors as Desiderio da Settignano.
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This composition is the Battle of the Centaurs (c. 1492). The action and power of the figures foretell the artist’s later interests much more than does the Madonna of the Stairs (c. 1491), a delicate low relief that reflects recent fashions among such Florentine sculptors as Desiderio da Settignano.
Read More