Giotto di Bondone
- Born:
- c. 1267, Colle di Vespignano, Republic of Florence (present-day Italy)
- Died:
- January 8, 1337, Florence, Republic of Florence (present-day Italy)
- Nationality:
- Florentine (Italian)
- Profession(s):
- Painter, Architect
Early Life and Education
- Giotto's early life is shrouded in legend, with varying accounts of his apprenticeship.
- Vasari claims he was a shepherd boy discovered by Cimabue, who recognized his artistic talent.
- He is widely believed to have apprenticed under Cimabue, a leading Florentine painter.
Career and Major Achievements
- Giotto revolutionized Western art by moving away from Byzantine stylization toward more naturalistic representations.
- He is credited with developing techniques of perspective and depicting figures with weight and emotion.
- His work established a new standard for Italian painting, influencing generations of artists.
Notable Works
- Arena Chapel (Scrovegni Chapel), Padua: A cycle of frescoes depicting the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, considered his masterpiece.
- Ognissanti Madonna (Maestà di Ognissanti): This altarpiece, sometimes referred to as the "madone d ognissanti giotto biography" centerpiece because of its prominence, demonstrates his departure from previous artistic conventions.
- Stefaneschi Triptych: A double-sided altarpiece for St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
- Bardi Chapel and Peruzzi Chapel frescoes, Santa Croce, Florence: Fresco cycles illustrating the lives of Saint Francis and Saint John the Baptist.
- Navicella mosaic: (Attributed) Fragmentary mosaic of Saint Peter walking on water, originally in Old Saint Peter's Basilica, Rome.
Legacy and Impact
Giotto's innovative style and naturalistic approach profoundly impacted the development of Western art. He is considered a key figure in the transition from medieval to Renaissance art and influenced countless artists who followed. His frescoes and panel paintings continue to be admired for their emotional depth and artistic skill.