Here are some key essays and written works that have significantly contributed to the understanding and analysis of the rise of painting during the Renaissance:
“Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects” by Giorgio Vasari (1550) Vasari’s seminal work is considered one of the earliest and most influential sources on the development of Renaissance art. It provides biographies of prominent Italian artists and traces the evolution of painting, sculpture, and architecture from the 13th to the 16th century.
“On Painting” by Leon Battista Alberti (1435–1436) Alberti’s treatise is one of the earliest theoretical works on the principles of Renaissance painting. It discusses topics such as perspective, composition, and the role of the artist, and had a significant influence on the development of Renaissance art theory.
“The Notebooks” by Leonardo da Vinci (c. 1490–1519) Da Vinci’s notebooks contain a wealth of observations, theories, and insights into various aspects of art, including painting techniques, anatomy, perspective, and the role of the artist. His writings shed light on the intellectual and scientific foundations of Renaissance painting.
“The Book of the Art of Cennino Cennini” (c. 1390) Cennini’s practical handbook on painting techniques and materials provides valuable insights into the working methods and practices of Renaissance artists. It covers topics such as pigment preparation, fresco painting, and panel painting.
“The Treatise on Painting” by Giovanni Paolo Lomazzo (1584) Lomazzo’s treatise is a comprehensive work that discusses various aspects of Renaissance painting, including theory, technique, and the role of the artist. It also explores the concept of the “idea” and the relationship between art and nature.
While these works may not be specifically labelled as “essays,” they are significant written sources that have contributed to our understanding of the rise of painting during the Renaissance period. They provide insights into the theoretical foundations, techniques, and cultural context that shaped the development of Renaissance art.
[1] Mark Cocker Catalogue essay for New Work - Beaux Arts London … https://www.sarahgillespie.co.uk/about/articles-reviews/mark-cocker-catalogue-essay-for-new-work-beaux-arts-london-2019/
[2] My Own Words: What Are Artists Really Writing About? - Art & Market https://artandmarket.net/analysis/2023/4/29/my-own-words-what-are-artists-really-writing-about
[3] Essays | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/essays [4] Writings, Essays, Blog, Notes of a painter - ian mackay http://imackay.ca/notes
[5] Noble Curry’s Essays on Abstraction and Modernity in 20th Century … https://www.currybrothersart.com/noble-currys-essays-on-abstraction-and-modernity-in-20th-century-painting.html