The ceiling was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512 starting at the age of 33. In order to reach the Chapel's ceiling,
which was 68 feet above the floor, Michelangelo designed his own scaffold. Contrary to popular belief, he painted not
lying on his back but in a standing position on the scaffold. The work was carried out in extremely uncomfortable
conditions from his having to work with his head tilted upwards.