Early and High Renaissance

What is the Renaissance period?

The historical period in Europe spanning approximately from 1400 to 1550, characterized by a 'rebirth' of classical learning, art, and culture.

What was the core concept of the Renaissance?

The central idea of the Renaissance was the 'rebirth' of classical Greek and Roman culture, including their art, philosophy, literature, and scientific inquiry.

What is Humanism, a key intellectual movement of the Renaissance?

It refers to the renewed interest in human achievements and potential, emphasizing secular subjects, reason, and individual dignity, often drawing inspiration from classical texts.

What characterized Early Renaissance art?

Early Renaissance art (c. 1400-1490) focused on developing linear perspective, naturalism, anatomy, and expressive individualism, laying the groundwork for later developments.

What distinguished High Renaissance art?

High Renaissance art (c. 1490-1527) refined Early Renaissance principles, emphasizing harmony, balance, ideal beauty, and monumental scale, reaching a pinnacle of artistic achievement.

Who was Donatello and what was his significance?

Donatello (c. 1386-1466) was an influential Early Renaissance sculptor known for his naturalism and the revival of classical forms, such as his bronze 'David', the first freestanding nude male sculpture since antiquity.

How did Leonardo Da Vinci innovate artistic techniques?

He introduced revolutionary changes in art, including atmospheric perspective and sfumato, and pioneered scientific anatomical studies to enhance realism in figures.

Why is Leonardo Da Vinci considered a 'Renaissance Man'?

He embodied the ideal of the 'Renaissance Man' due to his mastery across diverse fields, including painting, sculpture, architecture, music, science, invention, and anatomy.

Name two iconic works by Leonardo Da Vinci.

His most famous paintings include the 'Mona Lisa', known for her enigmatic smile and sfumato technique, and 'The Last Supper', a monumental fresco depicting a dramatic moment.

Who was Michelangelo?

Michelangelo (1475-1564) was a master sculptor, painter, and architect of the High Renaissance, renowned for his monumental scale and dramatic intensity.

What are two notable sculptures by Michelangelo?

His most famous sculptures include 'David', a colossal marble statue symbolizing Florentine liberty, and 'Pietà', a marble sculpture depicting Mary cradling the dead body of Christ.

What major architectural piece did Michelangelo paint?

Michelangelo spent four years painting the monumental frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis.