Artists

 Masaccio

 Masaccio

(1401 - c. 1428)
Born: San Giovani Valdarno, Italy
Style: Early Renaissance
Famous Works:
  • Madonna Enthroned (1426)
  • The Tribute Money (1427)
  • The Expulsion from Paradise (c. 1427)
Masaccio, whose genius was identified early in his career, introduced a new way of painting during the early Renaissance. While his training is not known, his close proximity to Florence would have afforded him the opportunity to see Donatello's and Brunelleschi's work. Masaccio's talent is clear in his portrayal of the human figure and "rational" picture space. Rational picture space is the realistic depiction of the picture plane receding back into the space. Masaccio was one of the first to accomplish correct rational space and linear perspective in painting, giving the viewer a sense of dimension and depth on a two-dimensional surface. It is evident that he was keenly aware of human anatomy. His nudes are described as "clothed nudes;" his mastery of form had not been seen since Roman antiquity. Masaccio's most famous work is the set of frescoes housed in the Brancacci Chapel in Florence. Portraying the story of Adam and Eve, these paintings were revolutionary in their virtuosity of space and the monumentality of the figures. Masaccio synthesized the lessons of Giotto and Brunelleschi, offering the first understandable composition of figures resting naturally within depicted space. Masaccio perfected the use of contrapposto in his figures, while relating the events using gesture, motion and emotion. A limited palette of complementary colors, foreshortening, and sensitivity to human emotion makes these some of the Renaissance period's most beautiful works. Sadly, Masaccio died prematurely at the young age of twenty-seven.
Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

Up to 53% Off

Prado Brushes

by Escoda

The finest brushes for artist!

Up to 62% Off

Series 4050 Heritage Brushes

by Princeton

Richly distinctive brushes with excellent color holding

At Least 29% Off

Sketching Pencil Collections

by Derwent

Everything you need to start sketching today

Up to 47% Off

Scenic Fitch Brushes

by Dynasty

Made for big painting and projects!

From $19.49

Fashion Illustration

by David & Charles

Interactive and beautiful guide for fashion students.

From $7.16

How To Series: Oil & Acrylic

by Walter Foster

Learn to paint step-by-step.
Latest Product Reviews
The glitter is a beautiful mix of all the right colors. I had hoped it would be a bit smaller in size, but it is still what I would consider to be "small." The tube holds more than you would think and should last a good while.
- JenG in Michigan
exactly what I was looking for and great service.
- Grandma Sally in Montana
These markers are amazing! They work well on a variety of surfaces and the colors are vibrant.
- Jane Smith in New York, NY
Free Download for Kids

Download free coloring book pages Download FREE coloring
book pages to color at
home or school.

View Pages »