Giorgione

"Giorgione" by Herbert Frederick Cook is an exploration into the life and artwork of the Renaissance painter Giorgio da Castelfranco, known as Giorgione. The book tackles the challenge of piecing together Giorgione's story amidst conflicting accounts and debates about which artworks he actually created. It begins by acknowledging the limited information known for sure about Giorgione, such as the uncertainty around his birth details. The book paints a picture of an artist living primarily in Venice, dedicated to his craft and somewhat detached from the political troubles of the era. The author highlights Giorgione's likable personality, commitment to art, and rapid ascent to recognition, especially through relationships with important supporters. The opening also signals a discussion about his key works, acknowledging that experts often disagree on what can truly be attributed to him, setting the stage for a journey through the complicated discussions surrounding Giorgione's lasting impact on the art world.