Limitation of Authority
Pope Paul IV. was so shocked at Michael Angelo’s undressed figures in his famous “Last Judgment,” that he employed Daniele da Volterra to clothe them; and he, in consequence, received the nickname of “Il Braghettone” (the breeches-maker). Michael Angelo, with his usual wit, punished Messer Biagio da Cesena, master of the ceremonies (who first suggested to the Pope the impropriety of nude figures), by painting him in hell, with ass’s ears, as Midas.
The story goes that Biagio implored the Pope to insist upon the removal of this caricature, whereupon Paul IV. replied:
“I might have released you from purgatory, but over hell I have no power!”