Commission

Definition

A commission is an agreement in which an artist is hired to create a work of art, often involving payment and specific guidelines set by the patron. This practice was crucial during the Renaissance, as it allowed artists to receive financial support while also establishing their reputations. The relationships between artists and patrons were often mutually beneficial, leading to significant cultural and artistic developments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Commissions were essential for artists like Masaccio, who created works that set new standards for realism and perspective in painting.
2. The Medici family played a significant role in the commissioning of artwork in Florence, supporting numerous artists and establishing a legacy of patronage.
3. Artists often had to negotiate the terms of a commission, including payment and the specific content or style required by the patron.
4. Public commissions were particularly important, as they allowed artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience, often resulting in increased demand for their work.
5. Commissioned works were frequently designed to convey power, prestige, or religious devotion, reflecting the values and aspirations of the patrons.

Review Questions

• How did commissions influence the artistic style and techniques used by Masaccio compared to his predecessors?
  • Commissions played a vital role in shaping Masaccio's artistic style. As he received commissions from influential patrons, he was able to explore innovative techniques such as linear perspective and chiaroscuro. These techniques not only enhanced the realism in his paintings but also set a new benchmark for subsequent artists. Masaccio's ability to align his work with the expectations of his patrons led to significant advancements in Renaissance art.
• In what ways did the Medici family's patronage impact the development of art in Florence during the Renaissance?
  • The Medici family's patronage had a profound impact on art in Florence, as they commissioned numerous works from prominent artists. Their financial support allowed artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo to thrive creatively and produce masterpieces that defined Renaissance art. The Medici's influence helped establish Florence as a cultural hub, attracting talent from across Italy and beyond. Their support not only facilitated artistic innovation but also solidified their own political power through public displays of wealth and taste.
• Evaluate how the practice of commissioning art reflects broader social and cultural dynamics during the Renaissance.
  • The practice of commissioning art during the Renaissance reflects broader social and cultural dynamics by showcasing the interplay between wealth, power, and artistic expression. As wealthy patrons sought to demonstrate their status through commissioned artworks, they influenced the themes and styles that dominated the period. This relationship between artist and patron fostered a culture of innovation, encouraging artists to push boundaries while fulfilling the desires of those who financed their work. Additionally, commissions often served religious or political purposes, revealing how art was utilized as a tool for propaganda and social commentary during this transformative time.

Related terms

Patronage: The support given by patrons, such as wealthy individuals or institutions, to artists in exchange for their works or services.

Fresco:

A technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to become an integral part of the wall.

Renaissance Humanism:

A cultural and intellectual movement that emphasized the study of classical texts and the value of human experience, greatly influencing art and philosophy during the Renaissance.