Notes on Late Medieval Art

Late Medieval Art and Influences

Italian Art Snobbery

  • Italians view Middle Ages art as inferior, seeing it distort Classical Greek and Roman principles.
  • Renaissance begins in Italy around 1200 AD, seeking inspiration from the Classical past.

Political Structure in Italy (circa 1400)

  • Italy dominated by Holy Roman Emperor and the Pope.
  • Individual city-states (Siena, Florence, Pisa, Venice) competed for power.
  • Wealthy merchant families became key patrons of arts.

Frederick II's Influence (1198-1250)

  • His court reignited interest in ancient Roman art, promoting a revival style.
  • Used art to project his image as the heir of the Roman Empire.

Byzantine Art Influence

  • Byzantine style characterized by slim figures, golden backgrounds, and religious reverence.
  • Italian artists merged Byzantine styles with local ideas, known as Italo-Byzantine style.
  • Examples of Byzantine art include icons, manuscripts, and tapestries.

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

  • Francis renounced wealth, founded the Franciscan order emphasizing poverty and service.
  • His miraculous life inspired numerous artworks, including the Saint Francis Altarpiece by Bonaventura Berlinghieri.

Bonaventura Berlinghieri (c. 1235-1244)

  • Known for the earliest signed image of St. Francis, harmonizing Byzantine and emerging natural styles.
  • Saint Francis Altarpiece depicts the saint's relationship with nature and his stigmata.

Duccio di Buoninsegna (c. 1255-1318)

  • Key figure transitioning from Medieval styles to more naturalistic approaches.
  • Known for monumental works like the Rucellai Madonna and the Maestà, showcasing depth and emotional expression.

Simone Martini (1284-1344)

  • Prominent in the Sienese school; created elegant, realistic works influenced by the International Style.
  • Important works include the Annunciation with Two Saints and Maestà in Palazzo Pubblico.

Summary of Artistic Evolution

  • Transition from Byzantine influences to more natural approaches in the depiction of figures and space.
  • Rise of Humanism influenced the choice of subjects, depicting saints with relatable human qualities.

Conclusion

  • Late Medieval art laid groundwork for the Renaissance, emphasizing a shift towards classical inspiration and naturalism in art.