Italian Art

Some of the most world-renowned painters, sculptors and architects are Italians born in different centuries. Italy is home to such artists as Raffaello, who was considered one of the greatest and most popular artists of all time; and Leonardo Da Vinci, considered one of the great masters of the High Renaissance for his significant work as a painter, sculptor, architect, engineer and scientist.

When reflecting upon Italian art, one must not forget the valuable contributions made by Botticelli, one of the leading painters of the Florentine Renaissance, or Michelangelo whose artistic accomplishments have greatly influenced his contemporaries. Michelangelo's works include sculpture at the Basilica of St. Peter's, architecture for the Dome of St. Peter's and amazing murals painted in the Sistine Chapel.

In the 1600s, Gian Lorenzo Bernini was considered the greatest interpreter of Baroque style. Although he was multi-talented in various forms of art, his greatest work was sculpting. He became the official artist of the Popes and for the noble families in Rome. His most renowned sculptures include the Apollo and Daphne housed in the Gallery of the Villa Borghese in Rome, and the Ecstasy of St. Theresa in the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome. In the 1700s, Canaletto left his mark with awesome views of Venice and scenes of Venetian life. Also in this century, Antonio Canova was considered the greatest interpreter of Neoclassicism in sculpture.

The talent of Italian artists can be found in mosaics in beautiful churches, in Greek temples and Roman amphitheatres in many cities. Each work spans the centuries of this country, from the time of the Roman Empire to modern day.

Art information can also be found at these websites:

La Biennale di Venezia

Art and Architecture of Venice