The Renaissance

Filippo Brunelleschi

The themes discussed here--new materials and techniques, new themes, and new status--are illustrated well in the career of one Florentine, Filippo Brunelleschi. He is best known as the architect of the dome over Florence's cathedral, but he was remarkable in many aspects. In the next few pages I shall give some of the high points of his life, particularly as they illustrate the themes of this narrative.

His Youth

Brunelleschi was born in Florence and was apprenticed into the Goldsmith's Guild. He won early distinction for himself when he entered the competition to create the bronze doors for the baptistry of the city's cathedral. He lost that competition to Lorenzo Ghiberti, the best-known sculptor of his day. Ghiberti's work is justly famous, but Brunelleschi was bitterly disappointed.

Troubles, and a Journey to Rome

Filippo decided to go to Rome, to study the works of the ancients. He went there with his friend, Donatello, and together they examined closely the statuary and buildings of the city.

History of Western Civilization

E.L. Skip Knox
Boise State University

Comments and questions