The Renaissance Artist at Work: From Pisano to Titian

by Bruce Cole

This book gives the necessary background for the study and appreciation of Italian painting and sculpture from about 1250 to 1550. It tells how the artists learned their craft, the organization of their workshops, and the guilds they belonged to; how their customers or patrons treated them and where their work was displayed—churches, civic buildings, or private homes. The book discusses how art was made—tempera, oil, panel, canvas, fresco; it surveys the characteristic types of Renaissance art—altarpieces, portraits, tombs, busts, doors fountains, medals, etc.

Genres: Art, History, Renaissance, Nonfiction, Art History, Italy

216 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

Reviews

[Castles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unlike most renaissance books I’ve read lately, this is is not just a general introduction or review of the times but a really good study of the actual art and technique of the times. From the use of gold and how was gesso applied, to wood boxes and sculptures.

Yes, it’s a little repetitive but in a sense of an enthusiastic author that has a lot of knowledge to share. Great book.

[Alana White · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an invaluable resource in my research on Italian Renaissance artists for my nonfiction and fiction writing on Sandro Botticelli, including as it does chapters on the artist in society; artistic training; renaissance art: its function, location, and patronage; the materials of renaissance art (especially valuable); and the types of renaissance art. Very highly recommended. The Renaissance Artist at Work: From Pisano to Titian

[Giovanni García-Fenech · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gives a thorough background of how artists worked in the Renaissance, who their clients were, and what kind of work they made. A bit dry and repetitive (we really don't need to be reminded that Renaissance artists would be surprised at the way we look at their work today every other page), but quite informative.

[Sarah van den Bergh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting but quite repetitive book that I had to read for my course on Renaissance artists.

[Andrew Volpe]

1983 Edition

[Johns · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful and intellectually fulfilling read for anyone even casually interested in the Renaissance. BUT . . . this wonderful book sorely needs an update to the dreadful quality of the B&W photos in the work. The copy I read was a first edition; hopefully later editions contain improved photographs.