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    History of Art

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    • Introduction to Art History
      • 1.1Classical Art: A Foundation
      • 1.2The Importance and Role of Art in Culture
      • 1.3Methods and Approaches of Art History
    • Byzantine Art
      • 2.1Overview of the Byzantine Empire
      • 2.2Iconography and Mosaics
      • 2.3San Vitale and Hagia Sophia
    • Islamic Art
      • 3.1Introduction to Islamic Art
      • 3.2Calligraphy and Geometrical Forms
      • 3.3Ottoman Architecture
    • Gothic Art
      • 4.1The Rise of the Gothic Style
      • 4.2Major Elements of Gothic Art
      • 4.3Gothic Architecture
    • Renaissance Art
      • 5.1Italian vs Northern Renaissance
      • 5.2Masters of the Renaissance: Da Vinci, Michelangelo
      • 5.3Humanism and the Italian City-State
    • Baroque and Rococo Art
      • 6.1Overview of Baroque and Rococo
      • 6.2Caravaggio and Other Baroque Masters
      • 6.3French Rococo
    • Art of Asia
      • 7.1Introduction to Asian Art
      • 7.2Indian and Southeast Asian Art
      • 7.3Chinese and Japanese Art
    • Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
      • 8.1Origins of Impressionism
      • 8.2Monet, Renoir and other Impressionist Masters
      • 8.3Post-Impressionist: Van Gogh, Seurat
    • Modernism
      • 9.1From Realism to Abstraction
      • 9.2Cubism, Surrealism, Dadaism
      • 9.3Picasso, Dalí and Other Pioneers
    • Postwar & Contemporary Art
      • 10.1Art & Cold War Politics
      • 10.2Pop Art, Minimalism, Conceptual Art
      • 10.3Contemporary Art Movements
    • Art of Africa & Oceania
      • 11.1Ancient African Civilizations
      • 11.2Oceanic Art and Culture
      • 11.3Contemporary African Art
    • Art of the Americas
      • 12.1Native American and Pre-Columbian Art
      • 12.2Colonial and Post-Colonial Art in The Americas
      • 12.3Contemporary Art in Americas
    • Wrap-up and Review
      • 13.1Connecting Art History Themes
      • 13.2Understanding Art’s Impact on Society and Culture
      • 13.3Reflection and Feedback

    Renaissance Art

    Masters of the Renaissance: Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo

    cultural movement that spanned the period roughly from the 14th to the 17th century

    Cultural movement that spanned the period roughly from the 14th to the 17th century.

    The Renaissance, a period of great cultural change and achievement, produced some of the most influential artists in history. Among these, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo stand out as masters of their craft, their works still revered and studied today. This unit will delve into the lives and works of these two artists, providing a comprehensive understanding of their contributions to the Renaissance and the art world.

    Leonardo da Vinci

    Leonardo da Vinci, born in 1452 in Vinci, Italy, is often described as the archetype of the "Renaissance Man" due to his diverse interests and talents. He was a painter, sculptor, architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist, and writer.

    The Last Supper

    One of da Vinci's most famous works, "The Last Supper," was commissioned by Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, for the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. The painting depicts the moment when Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him. Da Vinci's innovative use of perspective and his ability to capture human emotion set this work apart.

    Mona Lisa

    The "Mona Lisa," another of da Vinci's most recognized works, is renowned for her enigmatic smile. The portrait's subject, Lisa Gherardini, was the wife of Florentine merchant Francesco del Giocondo. The painting's soft, atmospheric quality, known as sfumato, showcases da Vinci's skill and innovative techniques.

    Michelangelo

    Michelangelo Buonarroti, born in 1475 in Caprese, Italy, was a sculptor, painter, architect, and poet. He is considered one of the greatest artists of all time, and like da Vinci, his influence on Western art is immeasurable.

    David

    Michelangelo's statue of "David" is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. Commissioned by the Opera del Duomo for the Cathedral of Florence, it stands as a symbol of strength and youthful beauty. The statue is remarkable for its accurate anatomical detail, a testament to Michelangelo's skill and understanding of the human form.

    Pieta

    The "Pieta," housed in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Jesus after the Crucifixion. The sculpture is noted for its emotional impact, achieved through the detailed expressions and postures of the figures.

    Sistine Chapel Ceiling

    Commissioned by Pope Julius II, Michelangelo's frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City are some of the most influential paintings in Western art. The scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic "Creation of Adam," showcase Michelangelo's ability to depict complex narratives and his mastery of the human form.

    In conclusion, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, through their innovative techniques and profound understanding of the human condition, have left an indelible mark on the world of art. Their works continue to inspire and influence artists and art enthusiasts around the world.

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