The course examines the artistic patronage of the Medici family during its three hundred year rule, from 15th to 18th century. The best artists of the time were employed to do ground-breaking works. From Donatello’ sculpture to Botticelli’s mythological paintings; from Vasari’s decorative schemes to courtly portraits, we shall study a variety of art works, considering the reasons why they were commissioned and what they tells about the taste of the patrons.
Course aim
To introduce the learners to works of art and architecture commissioned by the powerful Medici family in Florence and beyond, with a view to understanding the reasons for their patronage.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- give two reasons for Cosimo de Medici's patronage of the Monastery of San Marco in Florence
- discuss three paintings studied during the course in a critical way
- list two features of the Uffizi Palace and explain its function
- list two features of Giambologna's sculpture
What else do I need to know?
n.a.
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