The Florentine Painters of the Renaissance With An Index To Their Works

"The Florentine Painters of the Renaissance" by Bernard Berenson is a historical exploration from the late 1800s, detailing the lives and influence of Florentine painters from Giotto to Michelangelo, and their impact on Renaissance art. The author focuses on analyzing the artistic techniques, unique styles, and far-reaching effects of these artists on visual art's development. The book begins by setting a formal tone, framing Florentine painting within its historical context and highlighting its leaders. A comparison between Florentine and Venetian painters asserts that Florentines excelled not only as painters but also as master sculptors, architects, and thinkers, greatly influencing the arts. It highlights how influential masters such as Giotto infused necessary characteristics into painting, such as a person's sense of touch and imparting meaning through their artwork. These artists are presented as essential in the transformation from medieval to modern artistic expression.