Bertoldo di Giovanni facts for kids
Bertoldo di Giovanni was an important Italian Renaissance sculptor and medallist. He was born around 1420 in Poggio a Caiano and passed away on December 28, 1491, in Florence. Bertoldo is known for creating small bronze sculptures, many of which were made for the powerful Medici family.
Even though he doesn't have his own biography by the famous writer Vasari, Bertoldo is often mentioned as a key link between two very famous artists: Donatello and Michelangelo. Only a few of his works are signed, like a small statue of Orpheus found in Vienna and a special medal of Mehmed the Conqueror. However, a big art show in 2019 showed 24 artworks believed to be his, including pieces made from wood and plaster.
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Bertoldo's Early Life and Training
Bertoldo di Giovanni started his artistic journey as a student of the famous sculptor Donatello. He spent many years working in Donatello's busy art studio. After Donatello passed away in 1466, Bertoldo took on the important task of finishing some of Donatello's incomplete projects.
One of these big projects was the bronze reliefs for a pulpit in the Basilica di San Lorenzo di Firenze in Florence. These reliefs showed scenes from the life of Christ. Finishing these works helped Bertoldo become a skilled artist in his own right.
Teaching at the Medici Academy
Later in his life, Bertoldo became the leader and teacher of a special art school. This informal academy was set up by Lorenzo de' Medici, a very powerful and influential leader of Florence. The school was located in Lorenzo's garden and was a place for young artists, especially sculptors, to learn and grow.
At the same time, Bertoldo was also in charge of looking after the collection of ancient Roman artworks kept in the garden. Even though Bertoldo himself wasn't considered one of the most famous sculptors of his time, his school was incredibly important. Many future art masters attended, including the legendary Michelangelo, along with other talented artists like Baccio da Montalupo, Giovanni Francesco Rustici, and Jacopo Sansovino.
Famous Artworks by Bertoldo
Bertoldo di Giovanni created several notable pieces during his career. One of his well-known works is a medal featuring Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. This medal shows the powerful ruler and is a great example of Bertoldo's skill as a medallist.
He also worked with other artists to create a beautiful Frieze for the entrance of the Medici Villa at Poggio a Caiano. A frieze is a long, narrow band of sculpture or decoration. Bertoldo is also recognized for making several other medals that were once mistakenly thought to be by another artist, Antonio del Pollaiuolo.
See also
In Spanish: Bertoldo di Giovanni para niños
