Michelangelo and Raphael - never before have two artists engaged in such a fierce rivalry. The central stage of this drama: the Vatican, where Michelangelo paints the Sistine Chapel and the young Raphael decorates the Pope's Rooms. Kia Vahland's compellingly written book tells the story of these two artists, whose lifelong competition led to universal masterpieces and liberated art from the tight grip of rulers. Michelangelo reluctantly accepted the Pope's commission for the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Initially, he struggles with the task but ultimately revolutionizes art and the depiction of humanity. Meanwhile, just next door, Raphael creates a novel vision of a harmonious universe with the School of Athens and other frescoes. He measures himself against Michelangelo, who suspects him of spying. And while Raphael competes with him.