Commission

Definition

In the context of art, a commission refers to a formal agreement or request for an artist to create a specific work of art, often for a particular patron or purpose. Commissions were particularly significant during the Medieval and Renaissance periods, as they allowed wealthy individuals, churches, and institutions to influence artistic production and the themes presented in artworks. These commissions often came with guidelines regarding subject matter, scale, and materials, which shaped the artistic practices and legacies of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Commissions often reflected the social status and tastes of the patrons who funded them, influencing the choice of subjects and styles.
2. During the Medieval period, churches were among the largest patrons, commissioning religious artworks to convey theological messages and enhance worship.
3. In the Renaissance, artists gained more independence and began to negotiate terms for commissions, allowing for personal expression within their work.
4. Famous works such as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling were the result of high-profile commissions that became significant cultural landmarks.
5. The process of commissioning art also included contracts that outlined payment structures, deadlines, and specific requirements for the artwork.

Review Questions

• How did commissions influence the themes and subjects of artworks during the Medieval and Renaissance periods?
  • Commissions significantly influenced the themes and subjects of artworks by reflecting the desires and ideologies of the patrons who funded them. Wealthy individuals and institutions commissioned art to showcase their power, piety, or social status. As a result, artists often focused on religious narratives or classical themes that resonated with their patrons' values. This dynamic between patron and artist shaped the artistic landscape, promoting certain styles while limiting others based on commission requirements.
• What role did church patronage play in shaping the art commissioned during the Medieval period?
  • Church patronage was pivotal in shaping art during the Medieval period as it provided substantial financial support for artists. The Church commissioned many religious artworks aimed at enhancing worship experiences and conveying theological concepts to congregations. This led to an abundance of altarpieces, frescoes, and illuminated manuscripts that not only served decorative purposes but also communicated religious narratives and teachings to an often illiterate audience. The close relationship between artists and church officials resulted in a rich tradition of sacred art that defined much of Medieval artistic output.
• Evaluate how the evolution of artist autonomy in commissioning practices during the Renaissance reflected broader cultural changes in society.
  • The evolution of artist autonomy in commissioning practices during the Renaissance mirrored broader cultural shifts towards individualism and humanism. As artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo began to negotiate their commissions rather than simply accepting terms set by patrons, it indicated a growing recognition of their skills as unique contributors to culture. This newfound independence allowed artists to explore personal expression while still satisfying patron demands. It also signified a societal transition where art was increasingly valued as a form of intellectual and creative endeavor rather than merely a craft, paving the way for future generations of artists to seek recognition for their individual artistry.

Related terms

Patronage: The support provided by patrons—often wealthy individuals or institutions—to artists, enabling them to create works of art.

Iconography: The visual images, symbols, and themes used in artworks that convey specific meanings or messages within a cultural context.

Fresco: A technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, commonly used during the Renaissance for large-scale wall paintings.