TABLE OF CONTENT

1.Introduction about Renaissance…………………..………………………………2

1.1 Overview about Renaissance period….………………….………………….3
2. High Renaissance………………………………….…………………………….5
3.Noticeable artist and their works…………………………….…………………...9
3.1 Raphael……………………………………………….……………………10
3.2 Andrea del Sartol…………………………………….…………………….11
3.3 Leonardo da Vinci………..…………….………………….………………12
3.4 Michelangelo……………………………………………….……………...13
4.Analysis of authors and impressive works……………………….……………...14
4.1 Leonardo da Vinci: A Brief Summary of His Life……………….…………...15
4.2 Mona Lisa - Century-worthy notorious painting……………….…………...17
4.3 Michelangelo Buonarroti: A Brief Summary of His Life……….……………22
4.4 David - Infamous work over the centuries…………………….…………...25
5.Conclusion……………………………………………………….……………...29
6.My refection about the course…………………………………….……………..30
7.General references……………………………………………….……………..
 Overview about
RENAISSANCE
The Renaissance was defined as a period of cultural and artistic revival
in European history. It began in approximately 1400 in Italy and ended
in the 1620s, with three main periods, that was:
- The Early Renaissance occurred during the 1400s (15th century
CE), more specifically from 1400 to 1495s.(1)
- The High Renaissance which flourished for about 35 years,
during the 1490s and it lasted until around 1527.(2)
- Mannerism: predominated from the end of the High
Renaissance in the 1520s to the beginning of the Baroque style around
1590(3).
The French term "Re-nai-ssance" translates to "Rebirth". This era was marked by the
discovery and exploration of new continents, the end of feudalism, and the rise of
commerce. Many significant innovations such as paper, printing, the compass, and
gunpowder.(4)
Especially in Art of this period was marked by groundbreaking works of art that were
informed by knowledge of science, math, anatomy, and architecture. This art
movement was a period of incredible creativity in Europe that celebrated individualism
and humanism and contributed to the rise of well-known artists such as Leonardo da
Vinci or Michelangelo or architects such as Brunelleschi and Alberti(5)
Religious and secular art in the Renaissance emphasized realism, detail, and drama
with subtle layers of meaning.(6)
 HIGH
RENAISSANCE

The High Renaissance was centered in Rome and lasted from about
1490s to 1527s.(7)
The zenith of artistic and cultural achievement in the 15th and 16th
centuries was marked by unparalleled creativity and innovation.
The High Renaissance, a thirty-year period exemplified by the iconic
works of art being made in Italy during what was considered a
thriving societal prime. Today, these awe-inspiring works remain
among the most excellent pieces in the historical art.(8)
Religious and secular art in the Renaissance emphasized realism,
detail, and drama with subtle layers of meaning.
A cultural movement towards Humanism came up during this period, which made
artists embrace the Classical Roman and Greek philosophies related to universal man
and his position in the world. This represented change from the idealized religious
iconography of the Middle Ages era. This was a departure from the medieval period's
idealized religious iconography and led to brand new descriptions of the divine theme
focusing more on resonant and emotional and expression of the characters in works. (9)
The famous artists came from various works of art, like painting, architecture, and
sculpture,...
Masaccio, Piero della Francesca, Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello,... are the greatest artists
from The High Renaissance. With a lot of artwork that is easy to recognize: Venus de
Milo statue, The Entombment painting, The Resurrection painting, and we can not miss
out on the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, which were from the High Renaissance
 A MAN CAN DO ALL THINGS
IF HE WILL.
- Leon Battista Alberti-
“Renaissance man” or “Universal man” this ideal embodied the basic tenets of
Renaissance humanism, which considered man the centre of the universe (universal
man), limitless in his capacities for development, and led to the notion that men should
try to embrace all knowledge and develop their own capacities as fully as possible.(10)
Thus, every talented individual of the Renaissance aspired to develop skills across
various areas of knowledge, including physical strength, social accomplishments, and
even the arts. The idea was most exactly and clarified exemplified in Alberti, who
excelled as an architect, painter, classicist, poet, scientist, also skilled as a horseman
and in physical feats. Similarly, Leonardo da Vinci with his talents through
achievements in art, science, music, invention, and writing.(11)
“PAINTING IS POETRY THAT IS SEEN RATHER THAN FELT,
AND POETRY IS PAINTING THAT IS FELT RATHER THAN SEEN”
- Leonardo da Vinci-
 (born April 6, 1483 Italy—died April 6, 1520 Italy(12))

“Leonardo da Vinci promises us heaven. Raphael gives it to us.”

-Picasso-

Triumph of Galatea Woman with a Veil The School of

(1514)(13) (La Donna Velata) Athens (1509-1511)(15)
(1514)(14)
 (born July 16, 1486,Italy—died before Sept. 29, 1530 (16))

Baptism of the Madonna of the Mystic Marriage of Saint

People (1517)(17) Harpies (1517)(18) Catherine of Alexandria
(1512-1513)(19)
 Leonard da Vinci in Italian is “Leonardo from Vinci” (born April
15, 1452, near Vinci, Italy—died May 2, 1519, France (20))
“The artist sees what others only catch a glimpse of”
-Leonardo da vinci-

Lady with an The Last Supper (1498)(22) Virgin of the

Ermine(1489-1490)(21) Rocks (1483-
1486)(23)
 “The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection.
Only God creates. The rest of us just copy.”
-michelangelo-

(born March 6, 1475, Italy —died February 18, 1564, Italy(24))

David (1501-1504)(25) The Creation of Adam (1508-1512(26) Moses (1513-1515)(27)

 4.ANALYSE
AUTHORS & IMPRESSIVE WORKS
 MONA LISA - LEONARDO DA VINCI
Leonardo da Vinci: A Brief Summary of His Life
Born on April 15, 1452, in Vinci, Italy - He died on the 2nd of
May, 1519, in Amboise, France., was a quintessential
Renaissance polymath whose contributions spanned art,
science, engineering, and various other fields.(28)
- Early Life:
Leonardo was born to unmarried parents, his father - Ser
Piero, and a peasant woman - Caterina. Raised in Vinci, he
showed early artistic talent.(29)
When he was 15, his father apprenticed him to artist Andrea
del Verrocchio. The training Leonardo received was truly
multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of disciplines
including painting, sculpture, and technical-mechanical arts.
This comprehensive approach allowed Leonardo to develop a
broad set of skills that would prove invaluable throughout his
life. He also worked in the next-door workshop of artist
Antonio Pollaiuolo (30)
Artistic Career:
Leonardo's artistry is epitomized by works such as "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper,"
showcasing his mastery of techniques like sfumato and chiaroscuro.
Scientific and Engineering Prowess:
Leonardo conducted extensive anatomical studies,
pioneering accurate depictions of the human body. => He
curious about anatomy.(31)
Leonardo's notebooks are filled with drawings and designs
of his inventions, including flying machines and war
devices. He left behind numerous notebooks with amazing
scientific observations, ideas, and sketches.(32)
His notebooks reveal a spirit of scientific inquiry and a
mechanical inventiveness that were centuries ahead of
their time.(33)
Leonardo da Vinci's legacy endures as one of the greatest
minds in history, he is a real "universal man". His influence
on art, science, and innovation continues to be celebrated
Some papers in worldwide.
Leonardo da Vinci’s notebook(30)
MONA LISA - CENTURY-WORTHY NOTORIOUS PAINTING
Created between 1503 and 1506 during the Italian High
Renaissance(34). Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" is one of the
most famous and enigmatic paintings in art history the Mona
Lisa reflects the period's emphasis on humanism, science,
and art.(35)
The Mona Lisa is a masterpiece that combines technical
brilliance with a mysterious and timeless quality. Its
composition, technique, and symbolism contribute to its
enduring fascination and status as a cultural icon
The Mona Lisa's influence extends beyond art; it has become
an iconic representation of Renaissance ideals and aesthetic
principles.(36)
The painting's theft in 1911 and subsequent recovery in 1914
added to its fame.
1. Composition and Pose:
Mona Lisa is portrayed sitting with the landscape
view behind her, with her body turned at a slight
angle, three-quarter view, almost face to the front,
this broke the standard profile view rule used in
Italian art(37)
The use of a pyramidal composition with her arms
and hands forming the front corner. Immediately, all
focusing on her body up to her eyes and her
infamous smile.(38)
The sitting position provides a comfortable
sensation.
2. Gaze and "the smile of Mona Lisa":
The subject's gaze engages the viewer, and her eyes
appear to follow the viewer from different angles.
Leonardo's use of sfumato, a technique that creates a
hazy, smoky effect, adds to the softness and depth of
her gaze.(39)(40)
The subject's facial expression is often described as
ambiguous and elusive.
Her smile and the play of light and shadow contribute
to the painting's mysterious quality. People most of the
time keep talking about her smile “Mona Lisa smile or
angry” and try to find a persuasive answer.
3. Techniques:
In this work Leonardo uses sfumato - a technique
involving subtle transitions between colors and tones,
creating a smooth and blurred effect.- which leaves the
corners of the eyes and the mouth in shadow. This
technique adds ambiguity to Mona Lisa's expression.(41)
Another technique employed by the artist is that of
aerial perspective which means that the background of
the image has been made to look faded with fewer detail
than the foreground. Leonardo da Vinci was one of the
first artists to use the technique of perspective, which
allowed him to create a sense of depth in his
paintings.(42)
4. Mona Lisa and its influence
It is undeniable that the impact of the "Mona Lisa" is enormous to the High Renaissance period
culture at that time. Not only did the three-quarter pose become the standard, but also its
author - Leonardo da Vinci's Preliminary sketches encouraged
artists to create freer studies and collectors to collect them. Such
as Raphael, adopt the technique, and composition of the Mona
Lisa and created his own portrait of Maddalena Doni (1506).(43)
Mona Lisa also became the creative inspiration for the Argentine
writer Martín Caparrós’s novel Valfierno (2004) is about the 1911
theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre. Or the classic song
“Mona Lisa” by American lyricist Ray Evans and songwriter Jay
Harold Livingston.(44)
Leonardo's portrait appears everywhere, on tickets, posters,
household items, and even the bath tower. Five centuries after
its creation, the Mona Lisa remains a touchstone for people
Portrait of Maddalena
around the world.(45)
Doni (1506) - Raphael (46)
 MONA LISA (47)

RAY EVANS, HAROLD LIVINGSTON

Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa

Men have named you
You’re so like the lady with the mystic smile
Is it only ’cause you’re lonely
They have blamed you
For that Mona Lisa strangeness in your smile

Do you smile to tempt a lover, Mona Lisa

Or is this your way to hide a broken heart
Many dreams have been brought to your doorstep
They just lie there, and they die there
Are you warm, are you real, Mona Lisa
Or just a cold and lonely, lovely work of art
Michelangelo Buonarroti: A Brief Summary of His Life
Born on March 6, 1475, Italy, He died on February 18, 1564, at the age of 88 leaving behind a
legacy that profoundly influenced the course of Western art. Michelangelo showed early
artistic talent. Because of his talent, he was taken under the
wing of the ruler of the city, Lorenzo de’ Medici.(48)
Michelangelo Buonarroti was born into a family of minor
nobility in Florence, but by the time he was born, his family had
lost its wealth and status. His father had only occasionally
worked for the government. He witnessed his father's
objection when he wanted to become an artist, and he began it
quite late, at 13.(49)
Considered to be among the most famous in existence, the
works of this artist in painting, sculpture, and architecture are
truly awe-inspiring. His works continue to be celebrated and
studied worldwide, influencing generations of artists.
Michelangelo's life and work epitomize the ideals of the
Renaissance, showcasing the transformative power of art, architecture, and the pursuit of
excellence in various creative endeavors.(50)
2. Artistic Career:
Michelangelo was known for his intense dedication to his craft, often described as a
perfectionist.(51)
Sculptor: Michelangelo's early notable works include
the "Pieta" and the statue of "David," Moses". which
became iconic representations of Renaissance
sculpture.(52)
Painter: He painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling in Vatican
City, considered one of the greatest achievements in the
The last judgment (1534)(55) history of Western art also famous with the "The Last
Judgment."(53)
Architect: Michelangelo also made significant
contributions to architecture, notably the design of St.
Peter's Basilica in Rome and the Laurentian Library in
Florence.(54)
Michelangelo was also a poet, and he wrote numerous
sonnets
the Sistine ceiling (1508 - 1512)(56)
In his later years, Michelangelo focused more on
architectural projects and less on sculpting and painting.
DAVID - INFAMOUS WORK OVER THE CENTURIES
1.Proportions and Anatomy:
Crafted by Michelangelo from 1501 to 1504, the marble
masterpiece "David" represents the biblical hero who
triumphed over the giant Goliath. (57)
Originally commissioned for the Florence Cathedral, it is
currently exhibited at the Accademia Gallery in Florence.
With an impressive height of over 17 feet (5.17 meters), the
statue is renowned for its idealized proportions, accentuating
the perfect strength in the human physique. Michelangelo's
precise exploration of anatomy is apparent in the accurate
portrayal of muscles, veins, and tendons, revealing a
profound comprehension of the human form.(58)
2.Pose and Contrapposto:
He is a muscular and sinewy teenager with a well-built physique,
around sixteen years old.(59)
The statue is positioned where the weight is shifted to one leg,
creating a dynamic and naturalistic posture.
This pose adds a sense of movement and vitality to the sculpture,
capturing a moment before David's battle with Goliath.
His stomach muscles are tensely contracted, and he is tense(60)
4. Facial Expression:
David's face reflects a combination of concentration and
determination. His furrowed brow and intense gaze convey a
sense of focused resolve and alertness to his
opponent's every move(61)
With a stone in his right hand and his slingshot slung
over his left shoulder, the pose conveys a ready-to-
fight back to the giant warrior, although the slant of
his body reveals his nervousness
"David" is considered a pinnacle of Renaissance art,
the statue's technical mastery and emotional
resonance have inspired countless artists and
sculptors throughout history.
Michelangelo's "David" remains an enduring symbol
of artistic excellence, reflecting the Renaissance's
emphasis on the beauty of the human form, and the
timeless struggle for virtue and justice.
"My sculptures are like my children. Each one is
unique, born from my creativity, shaped with care,
and carries a piece of my soul within its form"
-unknown-

“I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set

him free”
-Michelangelo-
 5.CONCLUSION
Overall, the High Renaissance period is a brilliant time of artistic, innovation. Through the
15th and 16th centuries, Italy's culture flourished and was marked by plenty of works by
masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo Buonarroti, Raphael, and Donato Bramante
the architect. During this period, art was characterized by a blend of realism, perspective,
classicism, and humanism, and brought forth a profound understanding of the human form,
exemplified by masterpieces such as the "Mona Lisa" and "David." The cultural context of
this era, influenced by a revival of classical ideals and religious themes, played a crucial
role in shaping the artistic.
Clearly shows society's desire for "rebirth", the desire to escape the values of the Dark
Ages. In the Renaissance, people no longer completely believed in religion, they built a
belief in human strength.
The High Renaissance legacy extends out of the previous framework. The portrayal of
human emotion and faces further underscores the significance of the High Renaissance.
This era is not only about outstanding artistic works achievement but also evidence of a
testament to the enduring power of creativity, intellectual inquiry, and the exploration of
the human experience.
 My refection about the course
To be honest, when I was in high school, I didn't like learning history, and so did I when I was
in university. At the beginning of the course, I wondered "Why do I have to learn these
things, all of it was the past?" Because I think my knowledge is good and enough. But after a
few days, I realized that all I knew before was just a drop in the ocean. I learned a lot of new
things about the ancient period and how the value of art still remains these days.
Moreover, at first, I thought History was something boring, but after a few days of research, I
realized that it's not as boring as I think. However, the history lesson still makes me fall
asleep.
Thanks to Mr. Phan Nguyen Bao - a determined teacher. Mr. Bao helped me a lot with my
assignment. Guess what? At first, I think you are a strict teacher. But you are kinda
easygoing. Your lessons are the healing for me after other classes. Because other classes are
stressful. 100 out of 10 for Mr.Bao.
It is easy to understand and catch up with Mr.Bao's lesson in class but I think it is a little bit
faster sometimes and the class couldn’t catch up with the lesson. Anyway, it is okay because
everything still works smoothly until the end of the course.
As a monitor of class GD23, I sincerely thank you for the interesting lessons over the past
time. Wish you the best!!
Sincerely
Nguyen Ngoc Thuy Anh
 References source
(1) https://artincontext.org/high-renaissance/
(2) https://www.britannica.com/art/Mannerism
(3) https://www.britannica.com/event/Renaissance
(4) https://online.lindenwood.edu/blog/the-renaissance-art-period-history-effects-and-influential-artists/
(6), (8)https://www.worldhistory.org/Renaissance_Art/
(7) https://boisestate.pressbooks.pub/arthistory/chapter/high-renaissance/
(9) https://www.theartstory.org/movement/high-renaissance//
(10), (11) https://www.britannica.com/topic/Renaissance-man
(12) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Andrea-del-Sarto
(13), (14), (15) https://www.theartstory.org/artist/raphael/
(16) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Andrea-del-Sarto
(17), (18), (19) https://www.theartstory.org/artist/del-sarto-andrea/
(20) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Leonardo-da-Vinci
(21), (22), (23) https://www.theartstory.org/artist/da-vinci-leonardo
(24) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michelangelo
(25), (26), (27), (51), (52), (53), (54), (55), (56) https://www.theartstory.org/artist/michelangelo/
(28), (29), (30) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Leonardo-da-Vinci
(31), (32), (33) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Leonardo-da-Vinci/Anatomical-studies-and-drawings
(34) https://www.britannica.com/topic/Mona-Lisa-painting
(35), (43), (44), (45), (47) https://www.britannica.com/topic/Mona-Lisa-painting/The-Mona-Lisa-and-its-influence
(36) https://www.britannica.com/story/why-is-the-mona-lisa-so-famous
(37) https://www.britannica.com/topic/Mona-Lisa-painting#ref342524
(38) https://digital-photography-school.com/what-the-mona-lisa-can-teach-you-about-taking-great-portraits/v
(39) https://www.britannica.com/topic/Mona-Lisa-painting#ref342524
(40), (41), (42) https://www.artble.com/artists/leonardo_da_vinci/paintings/mona_lisa
(46) https://www.thehistoryofart.org/raphael/portrait-of-maddalena-doni/
(48), (50) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michelangelo
(49) https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michelangelo#ref16619
(57) https://www.britannica.com/topic/David-sculpture
(58), (59), (60), (61) https://www.artble.com/artists/michelangelo/sculpture/david