Michelangelo : Master of the Italian Renaissance [Hardcover]

Gabriella Di Cagno (Author), Simone Boni (Author), L. R. Galante (Author)

Book Description

Grade Level: 3 and up | Series: Masters of Art (Peter Bedrick Books)

In the late fifteenth century, the palace of Lorenzo the Magnificent, ruler of Florence, was a meeting place of intellectuals, writers, philosophers, and artists. Among them was the talented young Michelangelo, soon to rank with Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael as one of the giants of the Renaissance. This book tells of Michelangelo's training in the workshop of Ghirlandaio, his fascination with the frescoes of Giotto and Masaccio, and the development of his lifelong passion for sculpture.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 6 Up-Using a format similar to that of the "Eyewitness" books, these two series entries continue the fine tradition of the earlier titles. The oversized volumes feature self-contained double-page spreads "...devoted to an aspect of the life and art" of the artist or to "...the major artistic and cultural developments of his time." Sidebars offer reproductions of related works or help to establish the appropriate historical context, thereby enlarging upon the central theme. The texts are written in a fluid style, and although neither artist is covered in the depth of more detailed books such as the "First Impressions" series (Abrams), each volume will serve as a fountain of information for students interested in a concise look at these two men. Some repetition occurs, a common problem when each spread must be self-explanatory. Important artistic and political terms are explained in context, although occasional references, e.g., "social Darwinism," are not elucidated. There are no glossaries. Although the color reproductions and detailed sections of some of the art are quite small, the quality of their color is not compromised. The realistic illustrations that accompany the well-organized text are both detailed and clear. These volumes will appeal to an older audience than either Robin Richmond's Introducing Michelangelo (Little, 1992) or Ernest Raboff's Vincent Van Gogh (Doubleday, 1975; o.p.), although the Bedrick books are missing the full-page reproductions of paintings found in the latter. Both Michelangelo and Van Gogh are sure to captivate students, enabling them to understand something of the triumphs and torments of these masters.
Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Language Notes

Text: English
Original Language: Italian

Product Details

• Hardcover: 64 pages
• Publisher: Peter Bedrick (February 9, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0872263193
• ISBN-13: 978-0872263192
• Product Dimensions: 14.2 x 10.8 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #914,354 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars michelangelo - master of the renaissance, November 4, 2003

By 

luz velasquez (california) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Michelangelo : Master of the Italian Renaissance (Hardcover)

As a sixth grade teacher, I found this book to be a fascinating resource for students. The book is sectioned by Michelangelo's works, such as by sculptures, paintings, and architectural works. The photos are beautifully displayed and each work has a description for the reader. In addition, a chronological biography is outlined page after page as it relates to his works. Information such as his lifestyle, personal events, and affiliations and accomplishments are described. What's great about the book is the fact that it includes information about the renaissaince, such as other artists and important figures of the times. This gives the reader a feel for the period and gives an opportunity to make connections to its significance in time. A great book for both young readers and adults.

5.0 out of 5 stars Purchase for the Spectacular Illustrations, May 3, 2011

By 

Marco Antonio Abarca (Colorado) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Michelangelo : Master of the Italian Renaissance (Hardcover)

"Michelangelo: Master of the Italian Renaissance" is part of the subperb Masters of Art series that was re-published in the United States. The series was originally published in Italy and characteristic of Italian children's books feautured outstanding illustrations. Simone Boni and L.R. Galante are two of the finest illustrators to ever work in children's literature. They are known for their intensely detailed architectural style of historical illustration. In this book, they do an outstanding job of recreating Renaissance Italy. As for the story line, it well written and covers all the key episodes in Michelangelo's long and very productive life. This book can be purchased used for almost nothing. My bet is that after you purchase your first volume of the Masters of Art series, you will like me purchase all of the books in the series. Highly recommended.

5.0 out of 5 stars Spectacular, full of beautiful reproductions, big size, April 30, 2011

By 

Eugene Tenenbaum "reluctant reader" (Bronx, NY USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Michelangelo (Masters of Italian Art) (Hardcover)

This 11 x 12.6 inches (28 x 32 cm) book, beautifully published on crispy white glossy paper, contains way over 100 excellent color reproductions mostly of a big size. The color accuracy is as good as it can get. The book is divided into chapters reflecting chronological periods of the artist's life described in detail. The art works are accompanied by thorough analysis. There are also chapters containing life chronology, glossary, selected bibliography, and photographic credits. This is a spectacular book.