Della pittura

Definition

Della pittura is an influential treatise written by the Italian artist and theorist Leon Battista Alberti in 1435, which addresses the principles of painting and represents a key moment in the development of Renaissance art. This work emphasized the importance of perspective, proportion, and the representation of space, marking a shift towards a more naturalistic approach in visual arts. Through this text, Alberti laid the groundwork for artists to explore three-dimensionality and the realistic portrayal of human figures, which were essential innovations during the Early Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alberti's 'della pittura' introduced the concept of linear perspective, which transformed how artists approached spatial representation in their works.
2. 'Della pittura' also discussed the importance of proportion, enabling artists to create more believable human figures that adhered to realistic anatomy.
3. The treatise highlighted the role of observation and studying nature as essential practices for artists aiming to enhance their skill and artistry.
4. Alberti emphasized that painting was not just a craft but a scholarly pursuit that required understanding geometry and optics.
5. 'Della pittura' influenced many renowned Renaissance artists, including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, who applied its principles in their masterpieces.

Review Questions

• How did Alberti's 'della pittura' change the way artists approached perspective in painting?
  • 'Della pittura' introduced linear perspective as a systematic approach to representing three-dimensional space on a flat surface. By defining vanishing points and horizon lines, Alberti provided artists with the tools to create more realistic depictions of depth and space. This revolutionized art during the Early Renaissance, encouraging artists to focus on accuracy in their compositions.
• In what ways does 'della pittura' reflect the shift towards naturalism in Early Renaissance art?
  • 'Della pittura' reflects this shift by emphasizing observation from nature and realistic proportions as key components of art. Alberti argued that artists should base their work on real-world observations rather than idealized forms. This focus on naturalism is evident in artworks that showcase more lifelike figures and accurate representations of space, aligning with the broader artistic developments of the time.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of 'della pittura' on art theory and practice beyond the Renaissance period.
  • 'Della pittura' had a profound impact that extended well beyond the Renaissance by shaping subsequent art theories and practices. Its principles laid foundational ideas for later developments in art education, emphasizing critical thinking, observation, and technical skill. Moreover, its influence can be seen in later movements such as Baroque and Neoclassicism, where principles of perspective and naturalism continued to evolve and inspire generations of artists.

Related terms

Linear Perspective: A mathematical system used to create the illusion of depth on a flat surface, developed during the Renaissance, allowing artists to represent three-dimensional space convincingly.

Chiaroscuro: A technique in painting that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume and depth.

Fresco: A method of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing colors to become an integral part of the wall surface as they dry.