Law 9 from the book The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

While reading the book 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene (an interesting read - highly recommended), I came across an interesting story that stated observance of Law 9.

In 1502, Florence, Italy lay a magnificent block of stone. It was, however, mutilated by an unskilled sculptor when a hole was bored through it where there should have been the figure's legs. 

Soderini, Florence's mayor, contacted Leonardo Da Vinci and many art masters to fix the figure. But his efforts were in vain since all of them believed the figure had been ruined - except Michelangelo.

Michelangelo, on examination of the stone, suggested adapting the figure's pose to the way the stone had been mutilated. However, Soderini argued that this would be a waste of time and money but agreed to let Michelangelo work on it.

Weeks later, while Michelangelo was putting final touches on the statue, Soderini began examining it. While he thought the statue looked magnificent, he judged that the nose of the statue looked too big. 

Michelangelo realized that Soderini was standing right below the statue and so did not have a proper perspective. Moreover, Michelangelo also knew that Soderini prided himself on his aesthetic judgment. 

At once, Michelangelo picked up the chisel and a little marble dust (without Soderini noticing the dust being picked up). He gestured Soderini to follow him. Michelangelo gently tapped the nose of the statue, letting the marble dust fall off his hand little by little.

"I like it better", said Soderini, "You've made the statue come alive!"

Law 9: Win through your actions, never through your argument.

What do you think?