Italian Renaissance

The Italian Renaissance can be described as a rebirth. It was a time when they went back to the Classic Greek and Roman orders. They were able to refer to the old style, yet create ideas that were completely new. In addition, there was a new challenge to furnish interiors, and there was no longer such a large focus on architecture. The Italian Renaissance was a complete reformation, not only in the arts, but in the categories of religion, science, and philosophy as well.

Michelangelo was one of my favorite artists of this time. Client relationships were a lot different in the Italian Renaissance. Artists, like architects, painters, furniture designers, and sculptors were hired on a long-term basis. Michelangelo, at a very young age, was hired by the powerful, wealthy, and well-known Medici family. He worked on numerous pieces for the Medici family at a young age. Lorenzo de' Medici was a business man, banker, and major patron of the arts. At this time, everyone in Italy, rich or poor were interested in the arts. Michelangelo was one of the most skilled ever, having many talents as a sculptor, painter, architect, poet and engineer. He was considered the best artist of his lifetime. Below is the Medici Chapel that was designed by Michelangelo for the Medici family.

Aside from Michelangelo and the Medici family, there is the Villa Rotonda.

The Villa Rotunda was designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the most influential architects of the Renaissance. What makes this such a perfect design, is how Palladio took the sight and land around the building in to consideration. He wanted to emphasize the view. This is why the building has a Roman portico or porch on all four sides looking out on to the beautiful land,  creating a spot to walk outdoors and become enthralled in to the landscape. Palladio did a fabulous job of taking in to account the natural setting.

What is also very interesting about the Italian Renaissance is this was the first time interior design really became important. Decorative moldings, elaborate ceilings, painted wall and ceiling decoration, elaborate fireplace mantels, and pilasters became influential to interiors. Floors started to become brick, terra-cotta tile, or marble in geometric patterns. Furniture became portable and sparse with inlays of ivory, lapis, marble, onyx, and other stones. Walnut was used for the finest furniture.

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