Synopses & Reviews
In this study, Luba Freedman examines the revival of the twelve Olympian deities in the visual arts of sixteenth-century Italy. Renaissance representation of the Olympians as autonomous figures in paintings, sculpture and drawing were not easily integrated into a Christian society. While many patrons and artists venerated the ancient art works for their artistic qualities, others, nourished by religious beliefs, felt compelled to adapt ancient representations to Christian subjects. These conflicting attitudes influenced the representation of deities intentionally made all'antica, often resulting in an interweaving of classical and non-classical elements that is alien to the original, ancient sources. This study, the first devoted to this problem, highlights the problematic framework of the display and reception of ancient art during the Cinquecento. It offers new insights into the uneven absorption of the classical heritage during the early modern era.
Review
"[Freedman's] brilliant comprehension of the material, as well as her vast knowledge, is evident from the very beginning. This is exceptional work.... This is a beautifully written book, and Renaissance scholars should consider it a must for their libraries."
- Sixteenth Century Journal, Katherine A. McIver, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Synopsis
Examines the revival of the twelve Olympian deities in the visual arts of sixteenth-century Italy. Renaissance representation of the Olympians as autonomous figures in paintings, sculpture and drawing were not easily integrated into a Christian society. These conflicting attitudes influenced the representation of deities intentionally made all'antica, often resulting in an interweaving of classical and non-classical elements that is alien to the original, ancient sources. This study, the first devoted to this problem, offers new insights into the uneven absorption of the classical heritage during the early modern era.
Table of Contents
Part I: Outlining a Cinquecento Phenomenon: 1. Terms and concepts; 2. Components of the Phenomenon; Part II: Discoveries and Their Impact: 3. Olympian deities in ancient sculpture; 4. Ancient testimonies; 5. Literary descriptions; 6. The question of revival; Part III. Cinquecento Works of Art: 7. 'Classical' elements; 8. Non-classical elements; 9. The conflict in cinquecento schools of thought.