Domenico Ghirlandaio was a notable painter of the early Renaissance period. Born in Florence, Italy in 1449, he went on to become one of the most successful artists of his time. His nickname “Ghirlandaio” came from his father who was a skilled goldsmith known for creating garland-like necklaces worn by Florentine women.
One of Ghirlandaio’s most distinct traits as an artist was his ability to paint intricate narrative frescoes and portraits of leading citizens in contemporary dress. He apprenticed under Alesso Baldovinetti and was part of the renowned “third generation” of Florentine Renaissance painters alongside Verrocchio, the Pollaiolo brothers, and Sandro Botticelli.
In addition to being an excellent fresco painter, Ghirlandaio never used oils in his artwork. He instead, focused on religious scenes with exceptional detail work that made him stand out from other artists during the late fifteenth century. Some famous works by Domenico include The Tornabuoni Chapel Fresco cycle at Santa Maria Novella; St Jerome Writing; and Last Supper.
Perhaps one of Ghirlandaio’s greatest achievements is having trained Michelangelo as one of his apprentices. Michelangelo would go on to become a legendary artist himself with some considering him an improvement over Domenico’s works.
In conclusion, Domenico Ghirlandaio had a successful career as a Renaissance painter whose attention to detail set him apart from his contemporaries. With highlights such as training Michelangelo through apprenticeship programs and painting intricate narrative frescoes, he left an indelible mark on art history that still resonates today among art conneisseurs alike.
All Domenico Ghirlandaio Artwork on Artchive
| Artwork Name | Year | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Of An Old Man With A Young Boy | Wood | |
| Adoration of the Shepherds | 1485 | Oil on Canvas |
| The Visitation | c.1490 | fresco |
