Simone Martini in Orvieto

A new book explores the innovative multimedia work and early career of Simone Martini, a 14th-century Italian painter who transformed Western painting with his devotional images and manipulation of gold. The book focuses on his work for churches in Orvieto, a papal refuge, and highlights his technical accomplishments with new scientific analysis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

A captivating exploration into the multifaceted artistry and early career of Simone Martini, a renowned Italian painter of the 14th century, is unveiled in this captivating book. Renowned for his exceptional talent, Martini's paintings adorned the walls of popes, princes, and members of Renaissance dynasties, revolutionizing Western art with his pioneering devotional images and masterful use of gold. This meticulously illustrated volume showcases the extraordinary originality of Martini's works, highlighting their innovative construction, multimedia techniques, and captivating imagery.

A central focus of the book is the remarkable body of work he created for churches in the Umbrian city of Orvieto, a papal refuge and stronghold of the Guelph political faction. This publication sheds valuable light on Martini's early career and technical achievements, with extensive catalog entries for three Orvieto altarpieces and a painting of private devotion. Furthermore, new scientific analysis has been conducted on the Gardner works, providing fresh insights into their composition and provenance.

Leading scholars in the field have delved into the patronage of Martini, his artistic accomplishments, and his significant contributions to the development of the polyptych altarpiece. This comprehensive examination offers a profound understanding of Martini's artistic legacy and his profound impact on the world of art.

Published by the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, this captivating book is scheduled to be exhibited at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston from October 13, 2022, to January 16, 2023. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Simone Martini and witness the beauty and innovation of his artwork firsthand.

Dimension: 279 x 222 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300262247