Culture of Bronze: Making and Meaning in Renaissance Sculpture

The Italian Renaissance was a period of great bronze sculpture, both on a grand scale and in smaller, more intimate pieces. The material was expensive and luxurious, symbolizing power, authority, and eternity, and was easy to recycle, making it a popular choice for artillery. The Culture of Bronze explores the material and making of bronzes, the relationships between sculptors, foundries, and owners, and the symbolism of bronze within its broader societal context, featuring works by sculptors such as Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacoisi, Benvenuto Cellini, Donatello, Adriano Fiorentino, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Giambologna, Bertoldo di Giovanni, Leone Leoni, Barthelemy Prieur, Benedetto da Rovezzano, Adriaen de Vries, and Agostino Zoppo.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 04 February 2019
\n Publisher: V & A Publishing
\n

The Italian Renaissance, a period of unparalleled artistic flourishing, witnessed a remarkable resurgence in bronze sculpture. From grandiose masterpieces like Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise and Cellini's Perseus to delicate statuettes and intricately designed functional objects, bronze became the medium of choice for artists seeking to capture the essence of power, authority, and eternity. The luxurious and costly nature of bronze imbued it with a sense of grandeur, echoing the classical past while also embodying the modern spirit of innovation.

However, what sets bronze apart is its remarkable recyclability, especially during a time when the demand for artillery was paramount. This adaptability made it an ideal material for sculptors, allowing them to create works that were both visually stunning and environmentally conscious.

In "The Culture of Bronze," a comprehensive and visually stunning book, author Francesco Leoni del Biondo explores the intricate world of bronze sculpture. Drawing on the latest research and accompanied by an array of 200 superb images, del Biondo delves into the material and making of bronzes, shedding light on the collaborative relationships between sculptors, foundries, and owners. The book spans a wide range of works, encompassing sculptures created for domestic, religious, and civic environments. It examines the symbolism of bronze, exploring its cultural and historical significance within different societal contexts.

Through its comprehensive analysis, "The Culture of Bronze" offers a deep understanding of the artistic and technical aspects of bronze sculpture. It showcases the works of renowned sculptors such as Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacoisi, Benvenuto Cellini, Donatello, Adriano Fiorentino, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Giambologna, Bertoldo di Giovanni, Leone Leoni, Barthelemy Prieur, Benedetto da Rovezzano, Adriaen de Vries, and Agostino Zoppo, each of whom left an indelible mark on the Renaissance period.

This captivating book not only provides a visual feast for art enthusiasts but also serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students of art history. It offers a comprehensive exploration of bronze sculpture, shedding light on its historical development, artistic techniques, and cultural significance. By delving into the interrelationships between sculptors, foundries, and owners, "The Culture of Bronze" provides a unique perspective on the artistic process and the role of bronze in shaping the Renaissance era.

In conclusion, the Italian Renaissance was a golden age for bronze sculpture, characterized by its grandeur, luxury, and recyclability. "The Culture of Bronze" is a remarkable testament to the artistic achievements and collaborative spirit of sculptors during this period. Through its comprehensive analysis and stunning visuals, the book offers a deep understanding of the material and making of bronzes, as well as their broader societal context. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a scholar, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich history and artistic legacy of bronze sculpture.

\n Weight: 1672g\n
Dimension: 222 x 288 x 31 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781851779659\n \n