Visions of Heaven: Dante and the Art of Divine Light

Dante Alighieri (1265-1321) is one of the greatest European writers, known for his imaginative capacity and knowledge of science. Martin Kemp's book "Visions of Heaven" explores Dante's characterisation of divine light and its implications for visual artists. It compares the arts and highlights the challenges faced by painters in portraying divine brightness. Kemp examines Dantes poetry, optics, and Renaissance and Baroque art to create a fascinating study.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 25 March 2021
\n Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd
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Dante Alighieri, a towering figure in European literature, stands as a testament to his unparalleled imaginative prowess, which was accompanied by a profound understanding of the scientific advancements of his era. His poetic works not only evoke vivid visual imagery but also delve into the depths of human emotions and spirituality. In his seminal work, "Visions of Heaven," renowned scholar Martin Kemp delves into Dante's portrayal of divine light and its profound implications for the visual artists who were the beneficiaries of his visionary legacy. This comprehensive book can be seen as a new paragone, a continuation of the debate that emerged during the Renaissance regarding the superiority of different artistic disciplines. Dante's captivating descriptions of divine light posed a daunting challenge to painters, who took centuries to fully embrace and conquer. A central theme in Dante's "Divine Comedy," particularly evident in its third book, the "Paradiso," revolves around his acts of seeing. On Earth, his visual perceptions are governed by the laws of optical science, while in heaven, the poet's human senses are overwhelmed by the radiant light of divine origin, which defies the mathematical optics he had learned. The repeated blinding of Dante by excessive light sets the stage for artists striving to capture the unseeable brilliance.

Raphael emerges as the preeminent master of spiritual radiance, showcasing his ability to convey the divine through his masterful artworks. Correggio, on the other hand, employs his radiant magic in the dome illusions of Parma Cathedral, creating a breathtaking spectacle that fills the viewer with awe. When Gaulli evokes the glories of the name of Jesus in the vast vault of the Jesuit Church in Rome, he does so with an ineffable light that explodes through encircling clusters of glowing angels, their pink bodies bleached by the extreme luminosity of the light source.

Published to commemorate the 700th anniversary of Dante's passing, this groundbreaking book combines a meticulous reading of Dante's poetry with an in-depth analysis of early optics and the art of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It offers a fascinating exploration of the interplay between artistic expression and scientific advancements, shedding light on the rich tapestry of cultural and intellectual heritage that shaped Dante's vision. Through its innovative approach, "Visions of Heaven" provides a fresh perspective on Dante's legacy and its enduring impact on the world of art.

\n Weight: 1106g\n
Dimension: 200 x 258 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781848224674\n \n