Italian Renaissance Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts, artists, techniques, and cultural shifts related to the Italian Renaissance.

What does 'Renaissance' mean?

Rebirth

What period did the Italian Renaissance primarily occur?

From the 1300s to the 1700s

What major cultural transition did the Renaissance signify?

Rediscovery of ancient knowledge lost during the Middle Ages.

Who were the artists associated with the Italian Renaissance?

Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Giotto.

What major shift happened in art during the Renaissance?

Craft evolved into fine art with sophisticated skill and technique.

What was the primary societal influence during the Renaissance?

Christianity.

What were artists rediscovering during the Renaissance?

Ancient Greek art and techniques.

What is foreshortening in art?

A technique used to create the illusion of depth in painting.

What concept did Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' exemplify?

Use of linear perspective and dynamic composition.

What did Cimabue contribute to the Renaissance?

He was a pivotal artist that began shifting the Byzantine style.

Who was Giotto and what was his role in art history?

a successor of Cimabue, helping to define the classic Renaissance style.

What is chiaroscuro?

The use of strong contrasts between light and dark to model three-dimensional forms.

What does humanism refer to in the context of the Renaissance?

The integration of Christian ideals with ancient Greek ideals.

What form of art became a major industry during the Renaissance?

Printmaking.

What significant change happened in the role of artists during the Renaissance?

Artists were seen as individual geniuses rather than merely craftsmen.

What stylistic element is common in Michelangelo's work?

Use of dynamic poses and dramatic expression.

What does the term 'atmospheric perspective' refer to?

Creating depth by depicting distant objects as lighter and less detailed.

What is the significance of the Sistine Chapel?

It houses Michelangelo's frescoes and is a landmark of Renaissance art.

What is a key difference between classical and romantic art styles?

Classical style features restraint and symmetry, while romantic style emphasizes drama and emotion.

Name two key characteristics of classical art.

Restraint and linear clarity.

Name two key characteristics of romantic art.

Exuberance and complexity.

What led to the birth of the modern nation-state after the Renaissance?

The breakdown of the Holy Roman Empire and conflicts over religious doctrine.

How did the Renaissance change the subject matter of art?

It expanded to include secular themes and everyday life.

What was one major technological advancement during the Renaissance?

The invention of the printing press.

How did art during the Renaissance incorporate the study of nature?

Artists intensely observed nature to create realistic depictions.

What role did the Catholic Church play in funding Renaissance art?

It was the primary funding source for many major works of art.

What does 'idealized forms' in Renaissance art refer to?

Figures that are depicted in an ideal, perfected manner.

Name 3 changes in pictorial space during the
Italian Renaissance.

Chiaroscuro
Linear Perspective
Atmospheric perspective
Foreshortening

Reinvestment in observing nature

Chiaroscuro

is a technique used in painting to create a strong contrast between light and dark parts, enhancing the three-dimensionality of figures.