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The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects

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( 639 ratings, 60 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Giorgio Vasari's The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects is a collection of biographies of notable Renaissance artists. It chronicles their lives, works, and contributions to art, providing insights into their creative processes and historical context. The book is both informative and engaging, offering a detailed portrayal of the artistic landscape of the Renaissance period.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you have an interest in art history and Renaissance culture. It offers fascinating biographies and insights into some of the most influential artists and architects of the time, providing a rich, detailed portrait of their lives and works.

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The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects

Celebrates the lives and times of the great Renaissance artists of Italy, written by sixteenth-century artist and historian Giorgio Vasari.

The first comprehensive history ever written of the greatest period of the world's art.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of the Italian Renaissance with Giorgio Vasari's seminal work, The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects. Often hailed as the first art historian, Vasari offers readers an unparalleled look at the artistic achievements that defined an era. This masterful collection of artist biographies transports you from the humble beginnings of the Renaissance in the thirteenth century all the way to Vasari's own flourishing sixteenth century, presenting an intimate portrayal of the lives, works, and idiosyncrasies of the period's most influential figures.

Vasari's work captures the essence of the Renaissance through the life stories of its most celebrated artists. Meet Giotto, the revolutionary painter who broke with Byzantine traditions to forge a new path in figurative art. Experience the genius of Brunelleschi, whose architectural innovations included the marvellous dome of Florence's Cathedral. Discover the meticulous craftsmanship of Mantegna, whose works exemplify the mastery of perspective. Encounter the enigmatic brilliance of Leonardo da Vinci, the sublime grace of Raphael, and the monumental artistry of Michelangelo. Finally, revel in the vibrant colour and expressive brushwork of Titian, whose works were celebrated across Europe.

Giorgio Vasari, a distinguished painter and architect himself, lends a unique perspective to these biographies. His narrative is infused with both personal insight and critical analysis, making the text a pioneering work in art historical scholarship. Vasari's discerning eye and eloquent prose bring these legendary figures to life, offering not only a recounting of their achievements but a vivid sense of their personalities and their contributions to the evolution of art.

This Modern Library edition, thoughtfully abridged with a contextualising introduction by Philip Jacks, provides an accessible yet thorough rendition of Vasari's original masterpiece. Notes included from earlier commentaries and current research enrich the text, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for modern readers. The addition of these scholarly notes aids in understanding the broader historical and cultural context of the Renaissance, making The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects indispensable for students, scholars, and anyone with an interest in art history.

Series: Modern Library Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects by Giorgio Vasari is praised for its detailed biographical insights and historical significance in documenting Renaissance art. Reviews highlight Vasari's engaging storytelling and thorough coverage of artists' lives, though some mention his occasional biases and factual inaccuracies. Overall, it is considered an invaluable resource for art history enthusiasts.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780375760365

Publisher: Random House USA Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 14 February 2006

Country: United States

Imprint: Modern Library Inc

Illustration: ILLUSTRATIONS THROUGHOUT

Contributors:

  • Translated by Gaston du C. de Vere
  • Introduction by Philip Jacks

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 34.0mm

Width: 131.0mm

Height: 202.0mm

Weight: 516g

Pages: 640

About the Author

Philip Jacks, a leading scholar of the Italian Renaissance, is Associate Professor of Fine Arts and Art History at George Washington University and the author of several books. He also edited Vasari's Florence- Artists and Literati at the Medicean Court.

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