Mantegna

Andrea Mantegna

1431 – September 13, 1506

(image from: abcgallery.com)

Mantegna was a student of Roman archeology. He studied a lot with perspective like many others around this time. The Dead Christ is a good example of some of his work with perspective. Mantegna liked the antique look in art and tried to distance himself from the more modern art of that time. Many other artist followed examples of Mantegna. Artist such as Da Vinci, Givanni Bellini, and many more recieved inspiration from the works of Mantegna. (found: wikipedia)

The Lamentation over the Dead Christ

Andrea Mantegna

c. 1480

Tempera on canvas

68 cm x 81 cm

Pinacoteca di Brera, Milan

The Dead Christ: The Dead Christ is a wonderful example of how Mantegna used perception. It shows Christ in a different position than most other painting like this from the Renaissance. One interesting thing about this painting is how the feet are proportioned with the body. They are smaller than they should be. If they were shown to accurate size they would cover a lot of the body. The two people in the painting are Mary and St. John. They are shown morning for Christ.   (from: Wikipedia)

I chose this painting because of it's interesting portrayal of Christ. I find it most compelling because of the angle at which it is shown.

                                  

Oculus
by Andrea Mantegna
1471-74, fresco, diameter 270 cm
Camera degli Sposi, Palazzo Ducale,
Mantua, Italy

Oculus: Mantegna was an artist known for his pioneering idea of perspective. He married Nicolosia Bellini in 1453 and influnced her brothers, which were also prominite painters during this era. His great since of perspective kept him in high demand. In this picture it shows cheribs and other winged creatures looking down on the view. It was painted in such a way that it looks as though it is above you. (found: http://www.finearttouch.com)

I chose this painting because of its fascinating perspective. I love the way it appears above you. This is a wonderful example of what Mantegna is best known for.