Piero della Francesca was a pioneering artist of the early Italian Renaissance, known for his innovative use of space, luminosity, and subtlety. Machtelt Brüggen Israëls offers a nuanced account of his life and art, revealing the simple and stunning intentions behind his work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2021
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Piero della Francesca, a pioneering artist of the early Italian Renaissance, revolutionized painting with his innovative approach to space, luminosity, and subtlety. He not only created masterpieces but also pioneered the role of the modern artist by embracing various roles such as traveler, courtier, geometrician, patron, and more. In this insightful account of his life and art, Machtelt Brüggen Israëls delves into the origins of Piero's artistic journey, dispelling the notion of his art as enigmatic and uncovering the simple yet breathtaking intentions behind his creations.

Piero della Francesca: A Pioneer of the Italian Renaissance

Piero della Francesca, a renowned artist of the early Italian Renaissance, left an indelible mark on the art world with his innovative approach to space, luminosity, and subtlety. His works, characterized by their meticulous attention to detail and mathematical precision, revolutionized the way artists approached their craft. But Piero's impact went beyond his artistic achievements. He was a true pioneer, blazing new paths and challenging the conventions of his time. In this article, we will explore the life and art of Piero della Francesca, uncovering the secrets behind his remarkable creations.

Early Life and Education

Piero della Francesca was born in Borgo San Sepolcro, a small town in central Italy, in 1415. His father, Antonio di Bartolomeo della Francesca, was a wealthy merchant and a member of the local aristocracy. Piero received a thorough education, studying mathematics, geometry, and astronomy under the guidance of some of the most renowned scholars of the time. Despite his early interest in art, Piero initially pursued a career in the military, serving in the army of the Duke of Milan. However, his passion for art eventually won out, and he returned to his hometown to pursue his artistic dreams.

The Art of Piero della Francesca

Piero della Francesca's art is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and mathematical precision. He was a master of perspective, using it to create illusions of depth and space in his paintings. His works often featured geometric shapes and patterns, which he used to create a sense of harmony and balance. Piero's use of light and shadow was also innovative, creating a sense of realism and depth that was unprecedented in his time. His paintings often depicted religious scenes, landscapes, and portraits, but he also explored other themes, such as the concept of infinity and the relationship between man and nature.

Travel and Influence

Piero della Francesca's travels played a significant role in his artistic development. He traveled extensively throughout Italy, France, and Germany, studying the works of other artists and absorbing their techniques. His travels also allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, which he incorporated into his paintings. Piero's influence on the art world was immense. His innovative approach to perspective and light and shadow inspired many artists, including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. His works were also admired by philosophers and scientists, who saw in them a reflection of the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

Legacy and Influence

Piero della Francesca's legacy is enduring. His works continue to inspire and amaze viewers today. His innovative approach to perspective and light and shadow has become a fundamental principle of art, and his use of geometric shapes and patterns has influenced countless artists. Piero's influence can also be seen in the development of modern architecture and design, as his works often featured geometric shapes and patterns that were later incorporated into buildings and structures. In conclusion, Piero della Francesca was a true pioneer of the Italian Renaissance. His innovative approach to space, luminosity, and subtlety revolutionized the art world, and his influence can still be seen today. His legacy is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for art.

Weight: 822g
Dimension: 146 x 222 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789143218