Elizabeth Godbout

From Primavera to Mystic Nativity: Reconciling the Early and Late Work of Sandro Botticelli

Abstract

This thesis examines Sandro Botticelli’s manner and its correlation to the stylistic shift he underwent towards the end of his career. From the Primavera to the Mystic Nativity, Botticelli employed a singular manner of cultivation and representation. Botticelli stylistically represented the ideas and values of the powerful circles and leaders of Florence without necessarily firmly adopting them, which made such a stark shift possible. This manner allowed him to present new iterations of popular ideas through the cultivation of the imagery associated. Thus, there can be no “two halves” of his career as Sandro Botticelli’s stylistic shift is intrinsically connected to his consistent manner of painting.