Fra Angelico: A Sketch

"Fra Angelico: A Sketch" by Jennie Ellis Keysor is a compelling narrative that unveils the life of Fra Angelico, the famed Renaissance artist also known as Giovanni di Fiesole. The book journeys into Angelico’s spiritual and artistic evolution, celebrating his dedication to religious art during the height of the Italian Renaissance. As a Dominican monk, Angelico’s life was marked by devotion, simple living, and extraordinary talent, all of which Keyor describes. The pages depict Angelico's intense spirituality manifested in his art, specifically in the serene depictions of angels and biblical narratives. Readers discover how Angelico approached his work with reverence, often fasting and praying, considering his art a divine service. His connections with influential characters, such as Savonarola, as well as his artistic contributions to the Vatican, are carefully examined, establishing the portrait of a man known for his artistic brilliance, deep faith, and remarkable modesty.