If one were to gaze upon the statue of "David" by Michelangelo (1475-1564), they would notice the high esteem in which the human body was portrayed. The sculpture almost appears to be a person itself, so real, proportionate, and beautiful that it is uncanny to fathom that it is an interpretation by an artist. ... Humanism, "with its respect for the classical past, was merely a convenient vehicle for the subtle genius " of scholars, authors, and artists of the Renaissance (Kekewich 3). ...

• Word Count: 2321
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

At these courts leading artists, intellectuals, and politicians gathered under the sponsorship of the signore and families. ... They were definitely not concerned with making their artwork look lifelike, as can be depicted by famous artwork of many medieval artists. ... Giotto is considered the first artist to portray nature realistically (sorry Monet). ... Michelangelo is known as probably the greatest artist of the Renaissance, excelling in painting, poetry, sculpture, and architecture. Michelangelo was well known for capturing the essence of the human body, an achievement well sought after...

• Word Count: 1908
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

It was then that artists were in complete control of their materials and were capable of executing masterful works of art. ... They were definitely not concerned with making their artwork look lifelike, as can be depicted by famous artwork of many medieval artists. ... Giotto is considered the first artist to portray nature realistically (not Monet :>). ... Michelangelo is known as probably the greatest artist of the Renaissance, excelling in painting, poetry, sculpture, and architecture. Michelangelo was well known for capturing the essence of the human body, an achievement well sought a...

• Word Count: 1970
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: Undergraduate