Art

Piero della Francesca (c.1420-1492)

on of a tanner and shoemaker, Francesca's father was wealthy enough to afford and education for his son who was literate in Latin. He had contact with art in Florence in his early years where he gained an understanding of perspective. He was involved in art in Florence during the time when it was flourishing and he became an associate of Domenico Veneziano, who was painting frescoes for the hospital of Sta. Maria Nuova in Florence. One of Francesca's great artistic achievements was his work depicting "The Legend of the True Cross," a narrative cycle.

Francesca had some friends in high places, including Federigo da Montefeltro, whose court was called "the light of Italy." During the late 1950s, Francesca painted the "Flagellation of Christ." It's use of perspective and focus of the central characters make it stand out. Another noteworthy piece by Francesca is "The Baptism of Christ". Later in life, Francesca did not paint as much as he used to. Instead, he persued an interest in mathematics. He also wrote books and pamphlets on art and mathematics.

It is said that this may partially stem from Francesca going blind later in life.