The Renaissance is an era filled with architecture, science, and not least, art. The word comes from the French “renaissance” and means rebirth. It is said that the Renaissance was born in Italy in the 1400s. Many describe the period as the time when humanity discovered itself, as it was when the population in Italy was freed from the oppression of the Roman Catholic Church.
In the world of art, the Renaissance is said to extend from the early 1400s to the year 1550. As an active artist, one often painted antique motifs, and the influence of the church was still significant. By engaging with Renaissance art, you gain insight into the renewal and development that occurred in Europe at that time.
Renaissance Art – From Then to Now
Since its creation, Renaissance art has been an important part of art history, and the most famous works hold a significant place even in today's society.
Thanks to advancements such as the printing press and new knowledge in mathematics and philosophy, information and new ideas could quickly spread to more people than before. A new humanistic philosophy changed the perception of man's relationship with God – it was no longer limited to the church. All these changes naturally influenced society and people's way of thinking, and not least the art they created. Distinctive features of Renaissance art include better materials and oil paints than previously available. The wide variety of art we have today, with a broad range from drawings to paintings and sculptures in different materials, is something we can thank the Renaissance for.
The Symbolism and Style of Art
The Renaissance mainly took hold in countries such as Italy, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The art was permeated by symbolism, both religious and philosophical. Commonly featured were religious figures and biblical stories, as well as depictions of saints. Many had their own small art objects for private worship and adoration at home.
Another new trend was proportions with a focus on depicting people as realistically as possible. Artists aimed to recreate real proportions and appearances with believable bodies and faces. Thanks to new techniques, they could create a more three-dimensional image with several shades of light and dark.
The Most Famous Paintings of the Renaissance
One of the most famous artworks of the Renaissance is, of course, the Mona Lisa, painted by the Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is believed to be a portrait of Lisa Gherardini and is painted in oil on a white Lombard poplar panel sometime between 1503 and 1506. The painting was acquired by King Francis I of France and is now the property of the French Republic.
When we talk about Leonardo da Vinci, we must also mention the world-famous artwork The Last Supper, also known as The Last Supper. This is a painting from the late 1400s that represents the site of Jesus' last meal with his disciples.
In the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, Rome, the ceiling is adorned with paintings by the Renaissance artist Michelangelo. The ceiling paintings depict scenes from the creation story. Among them is one listed as one of the world's most famous, namely The Creation of Adam. The work portrays how Adam is given life by God. The ceiling paintings are made using the so-called fresco method, which means they are executed directly on the lime plaster with a type of water-mixed powdered color.
Art from Different Eras at Posterton
At Posterton, you can buy posters with art from different eras, painted by some of the most renowned artists in the art world. If you are looking for Renaissance art, you will find our selection of posters with motifs created by Leonardo da Vinci.
In addition to Renaissance paintings, you will also find motifs by Gustav Klimt, inspired by the early 20th century Art Nouveau. Also see posters with Claude Monet's blooming works from the late 1800s and Pablo Picasso's from the same period. Indulge in wonderful art from Posterton!