With and Without the Medici: Studies in Tuscan Art and Patronage 1434–1530

by Alison Wright

The six studies in this volume investigate the evidence for patronal interests expressed in a variety of commissions by different social groups and consider how far Medici activity as patrons can be considered paradigmatic. In examining the language in which the work was commisioned and received, the scholars explore the way the work of art reflects the patron's needs, interests or allegiance. New evidence is presented of aspects of the relationship between the patron and artists. Topics covered include commissions for the religious and secular decoration of Florentine villas, the activities and aspirations of Florentine nuns, the early practice of collecting, and the artist's response to the patron's needs through the formal qualities of the works of art.

202 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1998

About the author

Alison Wright is reader in Italian late medieval and Renaissance art in the Department of History of Art, University College, London.