The meaning of one arm raised depends on the position of the fingers: is it an index finger pointing to heaven, or a sign of benediction?
Giotto
An overview starting with the sculptural folds of the late 13th century, peaking with Raphael and Rembrandt, and dissolving with Renoir and Sargent in the early 20th century.
Why are women sometimes shown as having very pale skin? Why did they apply cosmetics to make their faces whiter? Ask the ancient Egyptians.
Classical and mediaeval dress was simple, and not tailored much until after 1000 CE. Painters were also constrained by fresco and egg tempera.
First in a new series looking at Renaissance painting from Italy, centred on Florence, shows some of the masterpieces of the ‘gap’ before the Gothic.
Isn’t that a horrific example of racism: a white man standing on the head of a Black man? Not when you read the image carefully.
Bridging between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, he was a master who helped shape our whole visual culture.
A six metre (21 feet) high fresco is a major undertaking, particularly when it’s one of the first paintings to use accurate linear perspective. How was it done?
A Bolognese man who pimped his sister, Jason of Golden Fleece fame, a couple of popes, and assorted astrologers – all suffering for their sins.
Deep underground, Satan and his demons are torturing and tormenting naked people. If you don’t live an exemplary life, that may be what you get in return.
The Eclectic Light Company 