Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects

Definition

This seminal work by Giorgio Vasari, published in 1550 and expanded in 1568, is considered one of the foundational texts of art history. It chronicles the biographies of prominent Italian artists from the late medieval to the Renaissance period, blending art criticism with historical narrative, thereby establishing a framework for future art historical writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vasari's work is not only a collection of biographies but also serves as an early example of art criticism, examining both the lives and works of artists.
2. He included significant details about the artistic processes, techniques, and influences that shaped each artist's style and contributions.
3. The text established a hierarchy of artistic merit, often favoring painters from Florence, reflecting the regional pride of the time.
4. Vasari's narratives helped to popularize the concept of the 'artist genius,' framing artists as individual creators rather than mere craftsmen.
5. The second edition expanded on the first by adding more artists and included illustrations that visually documented their work.

Review Questions

• How did Giorgio Vasari's 'Lives' influence the perception of artists during the Renaissance?
  • Vasari's 'Lives' significantly changed how artists were viewed during the Renaissance by promoting the notion of the 'artist genius.' This idea framed artists as individual creators with unique visions rather than just skilled craftsmen. By emphasizing their biographies and personal stories alongside their artworks, Vasari elevated their status within society and contributed to a growing appreciation for art as an intellectual pursuit.
• Discuss how Vasari's inclusion of techniques and artistic processes in his biographies contributes to our understanding of Renaissance art.
  • By detailing specific techniques and processes used by artists, Vasari provides valuable insights into Renaissance artistic practices. This not only aids in understanding how artworks were created but also highlights the evolution of styles and methods during this pivotal period. His emphasis on these elements allows contemporary scholars to appreciate the technical skills required at that time and how they influenced artistic outcomes.
• Evaluate the impact of Vasari's hierarchical view of artists on future art historical writing and scholarship.
  • Vasari's hierarchical view of artists set a precedent for future art historical writing by establishing criteria for evaluating artistic greatness based on individual achievement. This emphasis on exceptionalism shaped how subsequent scholars approached artist biographies, often leading to an unbalanced focus on renowned figures while neglecting lesser-known artists. The framework he created continues to influence contemporary discussions around authorship, meritocracy in art, and how we categorize artistic movements within history.

Related terms

Giorgio Vasari: An Italian painter, architect, and historian who is best known for his biographies of artists and for being a key figure in the development of art history as a discipline.

Renaissance: A cultural movement spanning roughly from the 14th to the 17th century that marked a revival of interest in classical art and learning, characterized by advancements in visual arts, literature, and science.

Art Criticism: The evaluation and interpretation of art, which encompasses various approaches to understanding an artist's work and its context within broader cultural and historical frameworks.