What happened today in history?
(October 12)
What happened
today in history?
Oct 12
What happened today in history?
Back

The Legacy of Piero della Francesca: A Celebration of His Life and Death

18

Piero della Francesca: The Early Life of a Master

Piero's Birth and Beginnings

Piero della Francesca was born in 1415 in the small Italian town of Sansepolcro. From a young age, he demonstrated a talent for drawing and painting. His passion for the arts led him to study under the guidance of renowned artists of his time, where he honed his skills and developed his unique style that would later revolutionize the art world.

Piero in Art and Mathematics

Not only was Piero an exceptional painter, but he was also fascinated by mathematics. His work is often noted for its geometric precision and perspective, which was groundbreaking during the Renaissance. By integrating mathematical principles into his paintings, he brought a sense of harmony and balance that captured the attention of art lovers and scholars alike.

Piero della Francesca: His Death and Influence

The Final Years of Piero della Francesca

Piero della Francesca passed away around 1492, marking the end of an illustrious career. His later years saw a decline in his eyesight, yet he continued to paint, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft. His legacy endures as he influenced countless artists and left behind a wealth of masterpieces.

Remembering Piero's Contributions

Even after his death, Piero's work continued to inspire. His paintings, such as 'The Resurrection' and 'The Baptism of Christ', exemplify his incredible skill and have become iconic examples of Renaissance art. Today, he is celebrated for marrying art and mathematics, paving the way for future generations of artists.

Fun Fact

Piero della Francesca’s Interest in Geometry

One of Piero’s lesser-known contributions was his work on perspective and geometry, which is detailed in his treatise, ‘De prospectiva pingendi’. This book laid the foundation for the study of perspective in painting!

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Piero della Francesca

If you wish to dive deeper into the life of Piero, consider reading Piero della Francesca: Artist and Scientist by Richard Stemp. This book beautifully illustrates Piero's dual love for art and mathematics.