Italian Renaissance

The Italian Renaissance lasted from 1400-1600.  Renaissance means "rebirth" and that us what this era was all about.  Classical forms were refined and adapted for new uses.  The interiors were furnished with pieces that went along with Gothic and Romanesque design styles.  During this time, the church had become very powerful and corrupt.  There was also a shift from a religious to secular emphasis.  Many reforms were made within the church by a man named Martin Luther.  Art, literature, architecture, and theatre were rising interests during this time along with the invention of the printing press.  Everyone in Italy had a passion and interest in the arts, no matter how wealthy or poor.  Residential design was also beginning to become more popular.  There was also a shift in thought and design, rather than focusing on safety, strength, and protection, people tended to focus more on comfort, convenience, and beauty.  In addition, people tried to move towards humanism through the writings of Dante.

The buildings that were inspired by the medieval concept began adding Ancient Roman style and details.  Most of the emphasis during the Italian Renaissance was on interior architecture instead of the furniture.  They also focused on horizontal lines and designs, as well as symmetry.

One of the finest achievements of the Italian Renaissance was the Italian Renaissance palace.  It showed great power and influence of one of the prominent families in Italy, the Medici family.  the building exhibits symmetry, compound repeat window, and a heavy cornice.  There was a central courtyard, just like the Roman domus, no hallways, and walls pierced with niches.  Residents were located on the 2nd and 3rd floor and there were also businesses and repair shops.

Another great structure from this time period was the Plazzo Davanzati.  It is located in Florence,Italy and is a perfect representation of the transition form Gothic to Early Renaissance.  Its interiors contained frescos, tapestries, and fireplaces, all of which were centered around an interior courtyard.

Plazzo Medici was another famous structure located in Florence, Italy.  The architect was a man named Michelozzo di Bartolommeo.  The floor plans included 3 principles: symmetry which included a central entrance with a vestible leading to the courtyard, Public rooms immediately accessible from the main entrance, and divisions among the Plazzo into smaller apartments.

The most influential architect in all of the Renaissance was Andrea Palladio.  He wrote The Four Books on Architecture as well as designed the Villa Rotondo.  Each side of the structure has a temple front including stairs, six columns, entablature, and pediment.  The rooms were arranged symmetrically around the dome. Palladio was also the one who recommended architectural proportions based on the models from the Classical world.

Another man who was a great architectural influence was Michaelangelo.  He was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, poet, and engineer.  His "David" sculpture was one of the most renowned works of the Renaissance, along with the ceiling of the Sistine chapel.

Leonardo Da Vinci was also an impactful man.  He was not only a painter and sculptor, but also an architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, engineer, writer, and more.  He was the most diversely gifted person that ever lived.  Some of his most famous works include the painting of The Last Supper (1498 AD), Self Portrait (1512 AD), and the Mona Lisa (1503-1505 AD)

Many of the interiors exhibited contrasting light and shadows from 3D moldings.  There was paneling on furniture and surfaces, frescos which expanded the space, and elaborate turnings for support as well as ornamentation.  Many of the ceilings were coffered and the walls were adorned with decoration.  Some of the interiors had elaborate fireplace mantels and many had decorative moldings.  The floors were either brick, terra-cotta tile, or marble, all places in geometric patterns.

As for the furniture, they were very portable and sparse pieces.  the finest furniture included walnut.  They also had inlays of ivory, lapis, marble, and onyx.

Past

Present

Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLHBHA0sVgE