Capella Brancacci and Santa Maria Novella Monastery: Frescoes that Changed History
About this experience
We will explore two important monuments of early Italian Renaissance painting - the Brancacci Chapel and the Santa Maria Novella Monastery. You will learn about the key works of the brilliant Masaccio, understand the principles of aerial perspective, and discover why the chapel marks a pivotal moment in art history. After our tour, you will be able to distinguish between the styles and creative vision of three of the most famous artists of the early Renaissance: Masaccio, Masolino, and Filippino Lippi.
What to Expect
The Fate of the Brancacci Family and Catherine de Medici and their connection to the Santa Maria Novella Monastery
You will learn the history of the chapel, which for four centuries belonged to the influential Brancacci family. What tragic events befell the Brancacci family due to their rivalry with the Medici family? I will tell you about Catherine de Medici, her connection to the monastery, and how she became the Queen of France. During the tour, we will visit the oldest pharmacy in Italy, which Catherine often frequented. We will also discuss how Catherine took several monks with her to Paris and the contribution they made to the history of French perfumery and cuisine.
The Genius Frescoes of Masaccio
The Brancacci Chapel contains the first depictions of the nude human body in the history of Renaissance painting, and they belong to the most famous artist of the early 15th century - Masaccio. You will learn about the life, creative path, and legacy of the artist who, in 27 years of his life, changed the course of art. I will tell and show you the specifics of linear and aerial perspective, which were first applied by Masaccio. You will understand why the artist's masterpieces stand out for the clarity of lines and the ability to penetrate the characters of the portrayed faces. In addition to Masaccio, two other artists worked in the chapel: Masolino and Filippino Lippi, whose works we will also analyze.
Who is the Tour For
Travelers who want to acquaint themselves with art, understand and love it, as well as true connoisseurs of painting.
Organizational Details
You can bring children (over 7 years old) on the tour, as the brilliant artist tells us stories in a very simple and clear manner, illustrating them in detail.
