Renaissance
The Renaissance led to major shifts in how art and culture were being perceived and started to shift the values of everyday people. During the Renaissance, the arts were becoming more valued by the everyday people, but less so by the church. The Protestant Church once funded large quantities of artwork and in doing so, heavily influenced the theme of most the well known works of the time. As the Renaissance took place, art grew to be more accessible and was beginning to be enjoyed by more classes of people.
As churches began to pull their funding in the arts, royals were often quick to replace them. The Dukes of Burgundy were a shining example of royalty largely funding the creation and exploration of art during the 15th century (Dr. Harris and Dr. Zucker, Khan Academy). Royalty prided themselves on the funding of artwork due to the influence they would have over what was being created and the blatant show of wealth. Another practice that began to flourish during this transition was the commission of portraits. One exemplary example is Mary Tudor who commissioned a detailed painting of herself. This painting is now available at the National Museum of Prado (Museo National del Prado) in Madrid. She commissioned this piece in 1554, a powerful investment that now upholds her image centuries later.
“Mary Tudor, Queen of England - the Collection.” The Collection - Museo Nacional Del Prado, www.museodelprado.es/en/the-collection/art-work/mary-tudor-queen-of-england/aef6ebc4-081a-44e6-974d-6c24aef95fc4. Accessed 18 Feb. 2025.
Harris, Dr. Beth, and Dr. Steven Zucker. “Northern Renaissance Art under Burgundy Rule.” Khan Academy, Khan Academy, www.khanacademy.org/humanities/renaissance-reformation/northern-renaissance1/beginners-guide-northern-renaissance/a/burgundy-and-the-burgundian-netherlands. Accessed 18 Feb. 2025.
Grace,
ReplyDeleteThe details of the painting are definitely amazing. The first thing that caught my eye was the bright red rose along with the bright red seat which reflects a symbol of royalty and her social status. I do think this painting is a little dull in certain areas but I think it's done on purpose to show the brighter color in other areas to grab the viewers' attention. I did some more research on this painting and found that this painting was very influential in terms of European dynastic politics and post-reformation religious conviction.
Below is a link with more information about this painting which has some really interesting background details:
https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/renaissance-reformation/northern/england/a/anthonis-mor-portrait-of-mary-tudor
The Mary Tudor by Anthonis Mor demonstrates remarkable realism through its brilliant color palette and intricate design details. The luxurious fabric of her dress and elaborate chair decorations embody the naturalistic focus of Renaissance art. The piece feels formal and distant because of its Tudor portraiture typical rigid posture and solemn expression. The artwork shows the transition of Renaissance art patronage from religious institutions to royal courts through noble figures who commissioned portraits to establish their social standing and family legacy. The period's focus on humanistic values is reflected in Mary's realistic portrayal rather than an idealized version. This portrait ties into larger historical narratives by reflecting the majestic style of Henry VIII's portraits and indicating Mary's Spanish political connections through its display in the Museo del Prado. This work is an artistic success and historical document that explains Tudor styles, leadership, and image-making. Does this painting accurately represent Mary Tudor's true legacy, or does it show a more regulated depiction of her leadership?
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