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CHAPTER 19
FROM GOTHIC TO RENAISSANCE:
14th-CENTURY ITALIAN ART

1. Read the chapter. View the early Renaissance art at the National Gallery in
Washington, D.C.

2. Learn the definitions for the following vocabulary and terms:

altarpiece
predella
humanism
chiaroscuro

buon fresco
tempera
pictorial space
perspective

fresco secco
panel painting
grisaille
sacra rapprentazioni

3. Explore the following issues, ideas and topics for discussion:

On the revival of classical values as contributing to concepts in the development of art. See page 523.
Sources of classical and Byzantine influence in 14th century art. See pages 525-527.
The 'major contribution' of Giotto di Bondone. See pages 527-531. Consider Giotto's use of sculptural solidity and weight and his innovations in perspective and lighting.
Elements and influence of the International Style. Page 533.
The presentation of 'real' people and 'real' space in art -- why, how, and where is this apparent in the art of 14th century Italy?

4. Remember the following works of art. Be able to analyze and discuss each one. Click on the image title for a link to that image; in some cases, the link will be to a similar work of art (check the textbook for the exact image).

The Annunciation and the Nativity by Nicola Pisano See page 526 in the textbook. Compare with The Annunciation and the Nativity by Giovanni Pisano. See page 526. Explain in what ways they are different and why.
Compare Madonna Enthroned with Angels and Prophets by Cimabue (Page 527) with Madonna Enthroned by Giotto di Bondone (Page 528). Consider the issues of "projecting an illusion of solid bodies moving through space on a flat surface."
Interior of the Arena Chapel (Cappella Scrovegni), Padua, Italy (Page 529) and detail, Lamentation, by Giotto di Bondone (Page 531). Consider how the figures are presented "on a kind of stage...for depicting human drama." What new devices did Giotto use in the formal design of the Lamentation?
Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints by Duccio di Buoninsegna (Page 532) and Betrayal of Jesus by Duccio di Buoninsegna (Page 533). Compare the two altarpiece panels. How does Duccio's Betrayal of Jesus display the artist's experimentation with new pictorial ideas?
Florence Cathedral designed by Arnolfo di Cambrio and others (Page 539). How does the Florence Cathedral represent a break from the earlier Gothic styles and "forecast the ideals of Renaissance architecture?" See discussion on pages 538-540.
Annunciation by Simone Martini (Page 534). In what ways does this altarpiece exemplify the style and methods of work in the 14th century? See insets on fresco painting and on "Mastering a Craft.".

5. Explore the following Internet sites and view the art:

View the works of Giotto at the Arena Chapel and elsewhere.
View additional works of art by Duccio di Buoninsegna.
View paintings at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York

6. Write a report (3/4 to one page) on ONE ISSUE from #3 or ONE IMAGE from #4 above . See the instructions on papers. Send your report through the LISTSERV. See the Schedule for date due.

7. Provide a thoughtful response to someone else's report through the LISTSERV. This discussion component is extremely important, and will constitute your presence in the class. See the Schedule for date due.

Page Updated 7/3/06

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