Instructions

PrintGiorgio Vasari (1512–1574) was an artist and architect. However, he is most famous today for his compilation of Renaissance biographies entitled Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects. Vasari’s publication is the first art history book ever written. He is considered the first art historian and is often referred to as the “father of art history.” During his teenage years, he was befriended by Michelangelo whose painting style greatly influenced Vasari. Many of Vasari’s artistic and architectural creations still exist in Florence, Italy. His literary work spoke of the developments in Renaissance art and also of many renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Alfonso Lombardi, and Lorenzetto. Vasari’s books have helped current art historians learn about many important works of art that have been lost over time.

Consider Vasari’s description of Leonardo da Vinci’s imaginative and inquisitive personality and his knowledge of other fields. Think about Vasari’s opinions about the artistic and architectural contributions of da Vinci. Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) was one of the greatest creative and scientific minds of the Italian Renaissance. He showed immense talent through his work as an artist and sculptor and was one of the highly influential people of his time. His most famous creations include Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Vitruvian Man, Virgin of the Rocks, and Lady with an Ermine.

Write an essay describing the key qualities that Vasari associated with da Vinci. Your essay should also discuss what his description tells us about Renaissance ideas about artistic genius.