Chapter 7 Rebirth of the Classical

So. Great painters. Who do you think of? Leonardo?  Michelangelo? Maybe Botticelli?

These three artists began their careers in 15th Century Florence.  They worked together, competed with each other,  and, under the patronage of the powerful Medici, pioneered a style of art that resurrected Classical artistic principles and set standards for style and technique that sustain powerful influence even today.

In this Chapter we will explore the era through the careers of our big three as well as Giotto, Raphael, van Eyck, and others. Let’s begin by comparing two paintings, one by Cimabue and one by his student, Giotto di Bondone. I’ll bet you can see the late Byzantine style of the Cimabue. OK, what differences can you see in the Giotto?

Cimabue. (c. 1290). Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist and Saint Peter.  Tempera on panel.	Giotto di Bondone. (ca. 1304). Pieta. Fresco.

Before you move on, take a moment. What changes do you see? What might account for those changes?

Slow down! Take a few moments to observe. What changes do you actually see?