“Trifles make perfection, and perfection is no trifle.”
- March 6, 1475 – February 18, 1564
- Born in the Republic of Florence (now Italy)
- Sculptor, painter, architect, poet
- Produced many masterpieces that represent Renaissance art, including the “David” statue, the “Pietà,” and the “Sistine Chapel ceiling”
Quote
“Trifles make perfection, and perfection is no trifle.”
Explanation
In this quote, Michelangelo underscores the importance of attention to detail in the pursuit of artistic excellence. He suggests that even the smallest, seemingly insignificant elements—what he calls “trifles”—are essential in achieving perfection. For Michelangelo, perfection in art (and life) is not the result of grand gestures alone, but of meticulously crafted, often overlooked details. This reflects his approach to his works, where every contour of the human form and every brushstroke in his paintings was executed with intense precision. He understood that mastery lies in the careful assembly of small, seemingly insignificant parts that together create something magnificent.
The quote has broad application in both creative and professional fields today. In fields like design, engineering, or writing, attention to the small details is often what separates good work from outstanding work. Whether it’s the careful editing of a manuscript or the precision required in architectural design, the “trifles” of the craft—those small, often tedious tasks—contribute to the overall perfection of the finished product. This mirrors the modern pursuit of excellence, where success is often built on a foundation of meticulous care and dedication to process.
Michelangelo’s belief also ties into the Renaissance ethos of the time, which revered order and harmony. In this context, “perfection” was seen as a reflection of divine beauty and order, and every detail—however small—was integral to the greater whole. The idea that perfection is not “a trifle” suggests that true greatness is not easily achieved or taken for granted. It is, instead, the result of sustained effort, a philosophy that has endured in artistic and intellectual circles through to the present day.
