Sandro Botticelli

Sandro Botticelli (c. March 1, 1445 – May 17, 1510), born Alessandro di Mariano di Vanni Filipepi, was an Italian painter and draughtsman of the Early Renaissance, considered one of the most accomplished and influential artists of the 15th century. Working primarily in Florence, Botticelli developed a distinctive style characterized by elegant linear forms, ethereal beauty, and mythological and religious subjects rendered with unprecedented grace and sensitivity. His most celebrated works include 'The Birth of Venus' and 'Primavera,' both masterpieces of Renaissance art that exemplify his fascination with classical antiquity and humanistic ideals. Botticelli served the Medici family and other prominent Florentine patrons, producing altarpieces, frescoes, and panel paintings that showcased his technical mastery and innovative compositions. His work profoundly influenced subsequent Renaissance artists and remains central to our understanding of this transformative artistic period. Though his reputation declined somewhat after his death, Botticelli's rediscovery in the 19th century established him as a canonical figure in art history, and his paintings continue to captivate audiences worldwide.