"On Painting" by L.B. Alberti

             Medieval art is the art that was produced in Europe during the Middle Ages-from the fall of Rome in 500 CE to the start of the early modern period in approximately 1500 CE. Most medieval art and architecture is religious, but the Church was not the sole patron of art. In fact, much of the religious art of the period was commissioned by secular powers. Medieval artists depended, in varying degrees, on the artistic heritage of the Roman Empire and upon the legacy of the early Christian church, mixed with the vigorous "Barbarian" artistic culture of Northern Europe. It is difficult to define a unified style for all European medieval art because this time period covers many different regions and styles. However, all European Medieval art offers a stylistic treatment that emphasizes spiritual values through an intentional denial of the ancient classical traditions of naturalism and illusionism.
             L.B. Alberti's "On Painting" was an important piece in that it was the first modern treatise on painting and influenced many painters of the period. On Painting established the rules for how to paint a three-dimensional subject on a flat panel or wall. The three main points were made of an outline and the composition and reflection of light. Alberti believed that Humanistic studies improve the soul, and that painting also improves the soul, and because of this, he believed that painting should be added to the list of humanistic studies, including grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, and music. Alberti even said, "one who is ignorant in geometry will not understand these or any other rules of painting."
             Painting bestows divinity on the painter, for "any master painter who sees his works adored will feel himself considered another god." Painting also influences architecture and other arts. Good painters have always been greatly honored, and noble citizens, philosophers, and even emperors were devoted to the art. Painting is related to ...

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"On Painting" by L.B. Alberti. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 20:07, March 28, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/6879.html