February in the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry
What did February look like in the Middle Ages? A famous illuminated manuscript gives us insight!
What is Rococo Art?
Fragonard's The Swing embodies the Rococo, an 18th-century art movement, which is one of the most distinctive in art history for its elegance, sensuality, and fascination with pleasure.
What is tempera paint? Explore with Paolo Uccello’s Battle of San Romano
Because tempera must be applied in many thin, quickly drying layers, its technique demanded precision and planning, helping explain the jewel-like detail and refined surfaces of Uccello’s work.
What is oil paint? Explore with Jan van Eyck's Annunciation
Jan’s mastery of light, color, and texture brings this divine moment to life. How did he do it? With oil paint!
Eleanora di Toledo, Duchess of Florence
In a spectacular portrait of Eleonora di Toledo, the second Duchess of Florence, she sits beside her young son Giovanni.
Filippo Lippi's Madonna and Child with Two Angels
Italian Renaissance artist Filippo Lippi’s painting of the Virgin Mary with the Christ child supported by two angels (c. 1465) is an image rich in religious and social meaning.
Raphael, Portrait of Lady with a Unicorn
Learn to read the painting, “Lady with a Unicorn” (c. 1505), created by Raphael, the Italian renaissance artist.
Equestrian portraits explained
How would you like to be remembered? This is a key question for anyone having their portrait created, including the ancient Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius on horseback.
What is a halo?
Focusing on Andrea Mantegna's painting of Saint George, this video considers what a halo is and why it is used in art.