The Altarpiece in Renaissance Italy

The most magnificent works of art of the Italian Renaissance were religious altarpieces. Intended as rich and beautiful creations, they were also the product of the most important developments in painting. Jacob Burckhardt is best known as the author of “The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy”. His lucid approach to the themes of painting characterize all his writings on the Renaissance. His essays on the altarpieces, written in 1898, remain an excellent introduction to the subject. This edition is the first time the work has been published both in English and as an illustrated book. Peter Humfrey is the author of “Cima da Conegliano” and many articles on Italian Renaissance painting.